Egypt target win, maximum gain against Angola, ready for any AFCON round-of-16 opponent: Hossam Hassan

Ahmed Abd El Rasoul , Sunday 28 Dec 2025

Despite already securing a spot in the Africa Cup of Nations round of 16, Egypt coach Hossam Hassan says the Pharaohs will play for a win and aim to gain the most from Monday’s final Group B clash with Angola, while keeping focus on the challenges that lie ahead in the knockout stage.

Egypt's head coach Hossam Hassan during Sunday's press conference photo... EFA official facebook page

Egypt opened their campaign with a 2-1 win over Zimbabwe before beating South Africa 1-0 on Friday, topping their group with six points and becoming the first team to secure a place in the knockout stage.

“Monday’s game against Angola is special for us, as we are looking to gain the most benefit from it at the technical level,” the former Ahly and Zamalek veteran striker said at a pre-match press conference on Sunday.

“Angola is a respectable and strong team. We respect all opponents and will play only to win, as the game is also an opportunity to prepare for our next matches,” he added.

The seven-time African champions have not lifted the trophy since 2010.

They failed to qualify for three consecutive editions in 2012, 2013, and 2015 before returning to the tournament and losing the 2017 final to Cameroon. Egypt reached the final again in 2021 but were beaten by Senegal in a penalty shootout, and their most recent campaign ended in frustration with a round-of-16 exit in 2023.

According to Hassan, Egypt’s players are determined to satisfy the fans and meet their expectations.

“The national team has spirit and determination, which is normal for a team of our stature,” the coach said. “Our main target is to please the fans. We have big and talented players in our squad whose goal is to serve their country and fulfil the fans’ ambitions. The best and strongest is yet to come,” he added.

Hassan also stressed that he approaches every game with the proper strategy to achieve victory, praising his players for their commitment and adaptability.

“The AFCON journey is still long, and African football is continuously improving. All the teams are strong and deliver great games,” Hassan said.

“Egyptian fans are responding to the players’ spirit and performance, and I am happy with their confidence. We are ready to face any team in the round of 16,” he concluded.

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