Ahmed Hassan, the esteemed former captain of the Egyptian national team, has imparted words of encouragement to the Pharaohs as they brace themselves for the kickoff of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2024 in Côte d’Ivoire.
Scheduled to commence on Saturday, January 13, the AFCON 2024 promises a riveting tournament, extending its spectacle until February 11, 2024, featuring the participation of 24 teams distributed across six groups.
As Egypt embarks on its twenty-sixth appearance in the AFCON, the team holds a prestigious record with seven titles, setting the stage for a compelling journey in the tournament.
Ahmed Hassan, in statements shared on CAF’s official Twitter account, underscored the profound value of the national team’s jersey and the collective pursuit of triumph.
Addressing the players, Hassan expressed, “I say to the players of the Egyptian national team that the national team jersey is of immense value, symbolizing standing on the podiums of victory.
I firmly believe that by wearing it, you place yourselves in an entirely different echelon.”
Reflecting on the team’s history, Hassan remarked, “This generation has not been fortunate enough to reach the final twice and secure the championship.
Nevertheless, they possess the capability to compete fiercely and clinch the title in this edition.”
Hassan highlighted the team’s seasoned expertise, stating, “There are formidable teams not accustomed to the African championship, but the Egyptian national team is experienced, powerful, and adept at advancing even when not in its prime.
This aspect must be leveraged significantly.”
“We possess a strong core, and the team’s current performance is on an upward trajectory.
Most importantly, the players must maintain a high spirit because, on many occasions, we’ve witnessed that high spirits compensate for technicalities; the team excels in this aspect,” he added.
Expressing his hope for each player to harbor both individual and collective goals with a focus on winning the championship, Hassan concluded, “I consistently emphasize that when we reach the final, finishing second is akin to being last.
If you reach the final, you must secure the championship.”
Egypt finds itself placed in Group 2 of AFCON 2024, alongside Ghana, Cape Verde, and Mozambique.
The national team is poised to commence its campaign against Mozambique on January 14, followed by clashes with Ghana on January 18 and Cape Verde on January 22, concluding the group stage battles.
Under the guidance of their coach, the Pharaohs aspire to script another chapter in Egypt’s football legacy on their quest for glory.
