The is bringing together players, coaches and fans from around the world. It is a spectacle that unites people in their love for football and offers an opportunity for all to exchange cultures and customs and share important moments with loved ones.
FIFA is bringing these moments to the forefront through its series 'Letters that Unite."
Ahead of Egypt's opening FIFA World Cup™ match against Belgium, midfielder Emam Ashour received an inspiring letter from former coach and mentor Neshaat Fathy.
"I consider Captain Neshaat as my second dad," said Ashour. "He’s always been by my side."
As a youngster, Ashour attended the Senbellawein Academy for young talents. While on trial for one of the academy's teams, the midfielder was chastised by a different coach for his playing style. He was called selfish and told he would never become a professional footballer.
The young Ashour was taken under the wing of Fathy, who believed in Ashour's talent and now wants to see him demonstrate it under the global spotlight.
"I have high hopes for you during this tournament," he wrote, "and I want you to prove that you’ve earned this since you got started in the Senbellawein Academy. Your skills, talents, and all your accomplishments up until now are more than enough to respond to whoever has doubted you.
"Now, you need to cheer up the millions of Egyptian and Arab fans watching the World Cup," Fathy added.
Alongside Mohamed Salah, Ashour will be looking to lift Egypt further than ever at the global spectacle. "God willing, I will live up to people's expectations," said Ashour.
Watch the video above to see Ashour read the letter in full.
Sources: FIFA Official
