Egypt defeated Nigeria 1-0 at home on Tuesday at Borg El-Arab Stadium to move to the brink of qualifying for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations for the first time since 2010.

The win cemented Egypt's position on top of Group G with seven points, five clear of second-placed Nigeria who have now lost hope of reaching Africa's most prestigious tournament in Gabon next year.



Ahram Online collected quotes about the game from many footballers:



Egypt's coach Hector Cuper

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"I am proud to be Egypt's coach and I am really happy with the fans big support for the team since I took charge," the former Inter Milan coach said, referring to the presence of around 75,000 supporters at Borg El Arab stadium.



Nigeria manager Samson Siasia

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"Egypt deserved to win the Alexandria game. I congratulate them on their victory and I thank Nigeria's players for their performance," the 48-year-old tactician told reporters after the game.



The Egyptian Football Association chairman, Gamal Allam

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"Winning against Nigeria is a big achievement and we now have 95% qualified to the Gabon tournament," Allam told an Egyptian TV programme.



Egypt's assistant coach Osama Nabih

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"Bad luck for Nigeria that they were drawn in the same group with Egypt. We have a very powerful team and we gained confidence. We are sure that we will return back to winning days."



Egypt's captain Hossam Ghaly

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"We know that football is a main source of joy for the Egyptian people and our priority was pleasing the fans. All the players were responsible and were able to please Egyptian football lovers."



Egypt midfielder Mohamed Elneny

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"Playing for Egypt is a big honour and a dream come true for me. I thank all my team members and all the fans who supported us," the Arsenal player of the month said.



Egypt defender Ahmed Hegazy

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"Egypt now have a very powerful team and we will be tougher and tougher against all the big teams."



Egypt keeper Ahmed Elshenawy

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"I replied with my performance to all of those who doubted my abilities to guard the Pharaohs net."



Egypt defender Hamada Tolba

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"The fans attendance really boosted the team during the game. They were a key factor in the victory."



Former Zamalek coach and Tottenham striker Ahmed 'Mido' Hossam

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"Qualifying to the African Cup of Nations during current circumstances after absences for three tournaments is a big achievement. We must support Cuper who proved he's on the right track for rebuilding the team."



Egyptian football icon Mohamed Abou Treika

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"Congratulations to the Egyptian national team for their determination and fighting spirit. This is a birth of a new Egyptian football generation."



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