Hamza Abdelkarim’s rapid rise at Barcelona has earned him another Egypt call-up, with the 18-year-old forward included in Hossam Hassan’s squad for the start of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

Egypt will host Angola in Cairo on September 25 before travelling to face South Sudan four days later. The Pharaohs will then conclude the international window with a friendly against South Africa on October 4. Abdelkarim joins a talented attacking group led by Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush, with Mostafa “Ziko” Abdel Raouf also among the forwards selected.

Hassan has named a 24-man squad for the two qualifying matches, balancing established international figures with emerging talent. Abdelkarim’s inclusion underlines his growing standing within the national-team setup after he featured for Egypt at the 2026 World Cup, where he played 57 minutes across four appearances.

The striker’s club trajectory has been equally striking. Barcelona initially signed Abdelkarim on loan from Egyptian giants Al Ahly in February, with an option to buy, and integrated him into the Barça Atlètic environment. The Catalan club activated that clause in June, completing a permanent deal and initially tying him to a contract through 2029.

Barcelona have since moved again to secure his long-term future, agreeing a new contract that runs until June 30, 2030. Abdelkarim has also made his competitive first-team debut, a significant step for a player who became the first Egyptian footballer to join Barcelona’s senior setup.

For Egypt, the September fixtures offer Abdelkarim a valuable opportunity to strengthen his place alongside Salah and Marmoush as the team begins its push for the 2027 AFCON. For Barcelona, his selection provides another indication that one of the club’s most promising young forwards is beginning to establish himself on the international stage.