Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has clarified his decision to withdraw Emam Ashour just 34 minutes into the Pharaohs’ opening match against Zimbabwe at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Monday night.
Ashour, who was making his return from a long-term injury, was replaced by striker Mostafa Mohamed as Egypt fell behind early in the contest.
Despite the setback, the seven-time African champions mounted a strong comeback to claim a 2–1 victory over the Warriors.
Speaking after the match, Hassan stressed that the substitution was purely tactical and not related to any fitness concern.
“Imam Ashour did not complain of any injury, and the substitution was 100% technical. The player is returning from a long injury, and I felt that the pressure would increase on him as we fell behind in the score, so I preferred to take him off to protect him,” Hassan said.
The former striker added that while he has complete faith in Ashour’s ability, the circumstances of the game influenced his decision.
“Ashour is a hardworking player, and I needed him in the playmaker position. I am completely convinced of his abilities, but I saw that his continued presence under these circumstances might expose him to great psychological pressure, and the change was in his favor and in the team’s favor, because he would not be able to withstand this pressure.”
Hassan also defended the timing of the change, insisting it had a positive impact on the match.
“The decision to make the change did not worry me, because I know very well what I want from the match, and it is my duty to protect the players in light of the great pressures imposed on them, and the truth is that the substitution was positive.”
The win sees Egypt move to the top of Group B on three points, level with South Africa, who also secured victory against Angola. The two sides are set to face off in a highly anticipated second-round encounter next Friday.
