Hossam Hassan: Egypt Aims for AFCON Title, Morocco Hosting Provides Home Comfort

Hossam Hassan, head coach of the Egyptian national team, affirmed that the Pharaohs' upcoming match against Zimbabwe, scheduled for Monday in the first round of Group B at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, represents a crucial step towards clinching the title.

During a press conference, Hossam Hassan stated: "We believe we are on the right track. We have thoroughly studied the Zimbabwe national team and will devise the appropriate plan for the match. We have a strong desire to secure all three points. The Egyptian public always looks forward to this tournament, which means a great deal to them. We are proud to be the most decorated team in continental titles."

He added: "The Egyptian national team comprises good players who are yet to win an Africa Cup of Nations title, and I tell them that they must achieve it before ending their international careers. We have high-caliber players capable of shouldering responsibility, and winning the title should be part of their history."

Hassan also noted that hosting the tournament in Morocco provides the team with great comfort in terms of stadiums, hotels, and organization. He remarked: "We feel as if we are playing in our own country; the atmosphere is wonderful and well-prepared for a distinguished edition of the tournament."

Addressing the squad's renewal, Hossam Hassan explained: "We have 14 players participating for the first time, eight of whom are from the Olympic team. This has injected new blood into the squad without causing any issues, and I have great confidence in them."

He concluded his statements by saying: "We recognize the strength of the tournament and the equal opportunities among teams, but our goal and ambition is to compete for the title. The Egyptian national team is great and will remain great, and we possess a blend of experience and youth capable of striving for an eighth title."