Egypt skipper Ahmed Elmohammady played down criticism over Egypt's disappointing displays at the African Cup of Nations, saying that winning is more important than performance.
The Pharaohs ended their group-stage campaign with a 2-0 win over Uganda on Sunday to advance to the last 16 as Group A winners with maximum nine points.
Liverpool winger Mohamed Salah opened the scoring in the 36th minute with a superb free kick before Elmohamady made it 2-0 on the stroke of halftime. Both players took their tally to two goals in three games.
"Winning is more important than the performance," Elmohammady told beIN Sports after the game.
"We faced a tough opponent who played well, but we managed to win. The performances will improve in the coming matches. I am very happy with this win."
The Aston Villa defender also heaped praise on Egypt's defence and goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shennawi, who kept a clean sheet for the third straight match.
"It is true that Uganda threatened us on mnany occasions but we defended very well tonight and in the previous two matches," he said.
Elmohamady also said Egypt should put their group-stage behind them and focus on the knockout phase as they continue their bid to win a record-extending eighth Nations Cup crown.
"It is now the time of celebrations but tomorrow it will be the time for work," he concluded.
Egypt will face a third placed side from Groups C, D or E on Saturday at Cairo Stadium.
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