Egypt's head coach Hossam Hassan reacts during the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) Group B football match between Egypt and South Africa at Adrar Stadium in Agadir on December 26, 2025. AFP
Egypt will face the Benin national football team at Adrar Stadium in Agadir at 5pm on 5 January, with a place in the quarter-finals at stake.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Hassan said Egypt were entering a decisive phase of the tournament.
“We are at a very important stage for the Egyptian national team, and we have big ambitions in the Africa Cup of Nations,” he said. “Our goal is to get past Benin, a team we respect and appreciate. Their qualification for the Round of 16 was certainly not a coincidence.”
Hassan praised Benin’s recent performances, noting their strong displays in World Cup qualifiers, but stressed Egypt’s determination to progress.
“We have great ambition to make the Egyptian people happy,” he said, adding that the coaching staff had closely analyzed Benin’s strengths and weaknesses and trusted the players to deliver.
Asked about Mohamed Salah closing in on Egypt’s records, Hassan described the captain as “one of the best players in the world over the past 10 years,” citing his ambition and professionalism.
He said Salah remained a central figure for Egypt and wished him continued success with Liverpool.
On fitness concerns, Hassan said injuries were part of the game. Midfielder Mohanad Lasheen has yet to return to full training, while striker Mostafa Mohamed resumed normal sessions on Saturday.
“Everyone is fully ready,” he said, adding that Lasheen’s condition would be assessed in training.
Hassan noted that the extended break between the Angola and Benin matches had allowed for recovery and boosted motivation.
He reiterated that he never underestimates opponents, describing the Benin tie as “like an Africa Cup final,” and highlighted his preference for versatile players such as Mahmoud Trezeguet, as well as Salah’s ability to operate in different attacking roles.
Addressing rumours surrounding the team camp, Hassan said the squad remained focused solely on football, while expressing confidence in Egypt’s goalkeepers regardless of who starts.
Benin finished third in their group with three points to qualify among the four best third-placed teams.
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