Egypt Coach Hossam Hassan Evades Questions from Moroccan Journalists Regarding "Controversial" Statements

The pre-match press conference ahead of Egypt's third-place playoff against Nigeria in the Africa Cup of Nations witnessed noticeable tension after Hossam Hassan, coach of "The Pharaohs," refused to answer questions from some Moroccan journalists.

During the press conference held today, Friday, Hossam Hassan engaged in a heated exchange with a journalist who demanded he "admit failure" instead of seeking excuses for the 1-0 semi-final defeat to Senegal.

Addressing the Egypt coach, the journalist stated, "You must tell the truth to the Egyptian people and admit that you were tactically weak and failed to reach the final." Hossam Hassan responded with clear agitation, saying, "Your questions are impolite and show no respect, and I will not answer you."

Another Moroccan journalist attempted to pose a similar question to the Egyptian national team coach, but Hossam Hassan showed no willingness to answer, opting to avoid comment.

The Egypt coach had previously stirred controversy following the defeat to Senegal, suggesting his team was treated unfairly due to insufficient rest days. He asserted that certain parties did not want "The Pharaohs" to reach the final.

Egypt is scheduled to face Nigeria tomorrow, Saturday, at 17:00 GMT+1, in the third-place playoff match at Mohammed V Stadium.