Hassan admits tough mission, warns of USA

The six-time African champions will vie with Brazil, Italy and USA in Group B, as Hassan bemoaned the inclusion of the CONCACAF champions.

"We already knew we had to face Brazil, and we expected either Italy or Spain, so I think that the presence of USA makes it more difficult," the Ahli midfielder told Dream Sport TV.

"To be honest, I was hopeful we could get New Zealand or Iraq instead of the US.

"Of course Brazil and Italy are firm favorites to go through, they have got the best players in the world."

Positive Impact

Hassan indicated that Egypt can benefit from facing top class teams in their quest to reach the 2010 World Cup.

"I think we should be under no pressure because we have little chance against Italy and Brazil," he added.

"Playing against football heavyweights will have a positive impact on the team, regardless of the results."

Egypt will kickoff their Confederations Cup campaign against Brazil in June 2009, after playing two World Cup qualifiers with Zambia and Algeria.