Egyptian Sports Minister: "Our Special Reception at AFCON Reflects Strong Ties Between Egyptian and Moroccan Peoples"
Ashraf Sobhy, Egypt's Minister of Youth and Sports, praised the Kingdom of Morocco for its excellent hospitality and organization during the Africa Cup of Nations tournament. His remarks came during a press conference detailing Egypt's preparations for the 2026 World Cup, where he emphasized the strong and enduring relations between the two countries, reflecting the deep bonds between the brotherly peoples.
During the Egyptian Football Association's conference on Thursday morning, Sobhy stated, "The special reception and professional organization extended to the Egyptian delegation during its participation in the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco clearly reflect the strength of the relationship between the two brotherly peoples."
In the same context, Sobhy unveiled a comprehensive football project aimed at developing Egyptian football. This initiative includes preparing a new generation of players, alongside building and upgrading stadiums and sports halls across the country, all in preparation for the 2026 World Cup.
The Minister clarified that there is full coordination between the state and the Football Association to ensure the best possible preparations for the tournament, with complete support for the technical staff led by Hossam Hassan. The Football Association remains responsible for establishing the foundations to strengthen the national team in the coming period.
He added that the state supports national clubs, including Ismaily SC, through sponsorship agreements, in addition to establishing sports halls at Al Ittihad Alexandria Club.
It is worth noting that the 2026 World Cup draw placed the Egyptian national team in Group G alongside Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand. Meanwhile, "The Pharaohs" concluded their participation in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in fourth place after a penalty shootout loss to Nigeria.
