Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has called on his players to approach their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations round-of-16 match against Benin with maximum focus, describing the encounter as an “early final” in the tournament.
Speaking ahead of Monday’s knockout clash in Morocco, Hassan stressed the importance of respecting Benin, warning against complacency at a stage where margins are slim and surprises are common. He said Egypt’s primary objective is to reach the quarter-finals but acknowledged that their opponents have earned their place in the knockout rounds through consistent performances.
“Benin did not qualify by chance,” Hassan said, noting that the team progressed steadily through challenging qualification groups for both the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup. “They are organized, competitive, and deserve full respect.”
Hassan also emphasized the identity and legacy of the Egyptian national team, reminding supporters of the country’s status as the most successful side in Africa Cup of Nations history, with seven titles. He highlighted the expectations that come with representing a nation of more than 120 million football supporters, saying the players are fully aware of their responsibility.
“We represent a football-loving nation,” he said. “The players are determined, and with their spirit and commitment, we aim to advance. For us, the championship begins with the match against Benin.”
Addressing the squad’s physical condition, Hassan provided updates on several players, confirming that midfielder Mohanad Lashin remains sidelined due to injury and has not yet returned to full training. He added that forwards Mustafa Mohamed and Osama Faisal are dealing with minor bruises but are expected to be fit, reassuring fans that the overall squad is in good shape.
The coach reserved special praise for captain Mohamed Salah, describing him as one of the world’s best players over the past decade. Hassan highlighted Salah’s professionalism, leadership, and record-breaking achievements at both club and international levels, expressing hope that the Liverpool star will guide Egypt deep into the tournament.
“He has an exceptional mentality and continues to raise standards,” Hassan said, adding that Salah’s experience will be vital in high-pressure knockout matches.
Hassan dismissed comparisons to past upsets, including Egypt’s surprise exit at the hands of Morocco in the 2019 edition, insisting that African football has evolved significantly. With many African players now competing at top European clubs, he said, the gap between teams has narrowed, making every match a serious test.
“Anyone who wants to win the title must respect their opponent,” Hassan said. “In modern African football, there are no easy games. That is why facing Benin is like playing a final.”
The Egypt–Benin match is part of a tightly contested knockout stage in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where traditional powerhouses and emerging teams alike are competing for a place in the latter rounds of the continent’s premier international tournament.
