Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has expressed confidence ahead of Friday’s high-profile 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group B clash against South Africa.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Hassan stressed Egypt’s ambition while underlining his respect for Bafana Bafana.
“We respect all teams, and South Africa are among the strong sides, but we play to achieve positive results and collect the three points. Every match is important,” he said.
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Egypt’s record scorer revealed that his team is approaching the tournament on a match-by-match basis, with the technical crew conducting detailed analysis of each opponent while maintaining confidence in the readiness of the entire squad.
Hassan also expressed appreciation to Egyptian and Moroccan fans for their support during Egypt’s opening win over Zimbabwe, describing the team’s stay in Morocco as “comfortable and welcoming”.
He noted that strong backing from supporters at home has further boosted morale, while emphasising that each game requires a tailored tactical plan.
Assessing South Africa, Hassan said Bafana Bafana’s national team reflects the playing identity of their club sides, which Egyptian teams such as Al Ahly, Zamalek and Pyramids FC have frequently encountered in continental competitions. He recalled Egypt’s victory over South Africa at the 1998 AFCON and voiced hope of repeating that success.
On team news, Hassan disclosed that the fitness of striker Mostafa Mohamed and defender Mohamed Hamdy would be evaluated after Thursday’s training session. He also explained that Emam Ashour’s substitution against Zimbabwe was a tactical decision aimed at introducing a natural centre-forward.
Egypt currently lead Group B with three points, level with South Africa, while Zimbabwe and Angola are yet to register a point.
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