According to the report, Ibrahim grew up in Egypt, where he first learned to play. Football runs through his family, with his father, grandfather and great-grandfather all sharing the same attachment to the sport.
His father had initially hoped simply to attend one of Egypt’s matches in Canada. Instead, he is expected to watch his son walk onto the pitch before kick-off - a moment that could stay with both of them long after the tournament moves on.
The match carries an extra attraction for Ibrahim: the chance to see his favourite player, Mohamed Salah, up close.
“To be honest, I'm really excited to have this opportunity. I'm just happy I get to go see all the players,” Ibrahim said.
Speaking about Salah, he added: “He's quick, he's rapid, he's very explosive. I think if any defender lets him get pace on them, they're finished. Like, the ball is going to end up in the back of the net.”
His coach, Mohammad Jaber, believes the experience could help shape Ibrahim’s development by exposing him to elite players and different football cultures.
The ceremony may last only a few minutes, but its impact could be broader. For young players across Canada, seeing a local grassroots footballer connected to the World Cup can make the tournament feel more personal and attainable.
“Being able to do that in Canada is a luxury and I think it's going to make the sport even bigger,” Omar said.
When Egypt meet New Zealand, the match will be the main event. Yet Ibrahim’s walkout could become its own storyline - and a reminder of how major tournaments can inspire the next generation.