Egypt's forward #7 Mahmoud Trezeguet. AFP
Egypt winger Mahmoud 'Trezeguet' Hassan said the Pharaohs and their technical staff gave everything during the Africa Cup of Nations, describing the team’s campaign as one defined by commitment despite falling short of the title.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of Egypt’s third-place playoff against Nigeria, the 31-year-old Ahly winger said the squad had entered the tournament determined to lift the trophy.
“We were playing to win the title, which was our goal from the start,” he said, adding that the technical staff, led by head coach Hossam Hassan, had fully delivered on its responsibilities.
Trezeguet stressed that no one had fallen short, saying players exerted their maximum effort throughout the competition but were ultimately undone by fine margins. “We gave everything, but luck was not on our side,” he said.
The Pharaohs’ winger acknowledged the quality of Nigeria, describing them as a strong side with high-profile players, but said Egypt remained focused on securing victory in the playoff. He also praised the collective effort behind the scenes, thanking the medical, administrative and equipment staff for their work during the tournament.
Looking back on the campaign, Trezeguet said the squad had shared a single objective since the start of the training camp on 3 December. He said players had worked relentlessly from the outset, united by the aim of winning the title, and expressed gratitude to everyone involved for their dedication in the lead-up to and during the tournament.
Egypt are set to face Nigeria at 7pm on Saturday in the third-place playoff of the Africa Cup of Nations.
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