Hassan Shehata supports the Egyptian national team to win the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco
Legendary Egyptian coach Hassan Shehata expressed his strong optimism about the Egyptian national football team's chances of winning the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, currently being held in Morocco. "The Teacher," as he is known, emphasized that the Pharaohs' performance in the group stage reflects tactical maturity and a high fighting spirit, promising a return to past African glory.
A successful run and a well-deserved lead
In an exclusive interview with Okaz newspaper, Shehata praised the technical leadership of Captain Hossam Hassan, who successfully guided the national team to the Round of 16, topping Group B with 7 points. Shehata reviewed the group stage matches, commending the team's ability to turn a deficit into a valuable 2-1 victory against Zimbabwe in the opening round, a testament to the players' composure.
He also highlighted the epic 1-0 victory over South Africa, achieved despite playing with ten men after defender Mohamed Hany's dismissal, considering this match a true test of the team's champion's character. The team concluded the first round with a tactical goalless draw against Angola, a match that saw substitutes given playing time to prepare them for the knockout stages.
Betting on the current generation and searching for the eighth star
Hassan Shehata believes that the current generation, led by global star Mohamed Salah, the talented Omar Marmoush, and reliable goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy, possesses all the qualities needed to win the title. He pointed out that these three were the standout players during the first phase, combining international experience with the individual skill that makes the difference in crucial matches.
This edition holds special significance for Egyptian fans, as the Pharaohs seek to break their long drought of continental titles, a drought that has persisted since 2010, the last championship won by the national team under the leadership of Hassan Shehata himself. Egyptians hope to add an eighth star to their jersey, further cementing their record as the most decorated team in the history of the African continent.
From "teacher" to "dean"... the continuity of generations
Hassan Shehata's support for the Egyptian national team under Hossam Hassan carries profound significance, as Hossam Hassan captained the team that won the 2006 title under Shehata's leadership. Today, "The Dean" (Hossam Hassan) stands at the helm of the technical staff, drawing inspiration from his mentor's winning spirit, in an attempt to repeat that historic achievement, but this time from the manager's seat.
The Egyptian national team is preparing to face a tough challenge next Monday against the Benin national team in the round of 16, a match that experts consider the real gateway to the advanced stages and serious competition for the continental title on Moroccan soil.
