Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan believes the national team will be stronger if players test themselves abroad after missing out on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title.
The Pharaohs finished fourth place in the continental tournament after succumbing to a 4-2 penalty shootouts defeat to Nigeria on Saturday, at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco following a pulsating goalless draw in the third-place clash.
Egypt, who are seven time winners of the AFCON reached the semi-finals but narrowly suffered defeat to Senegal.
Despite not winning the title, Hossam Hassan has expressed pride in his players, while urging them to test themselves abroad.
He acknowledge Nigeria’s squad depth, stressing his players made a great effort and showed outstanding levels despite the defeat.
According to him, Egypt competed well against Nigeria despite the significant absences due to injuries and suspensions, revealing his outfit gained more than one player in this edition and played in a distinctive way, which included 11 new players during the tournament.
Despite praising the distinguished players, Hossam Hassam affirms the national team will be stronger if the players move abroad to play professionally.
Meanwhile, Hossam Hassan appears not to be worried with the defeat against Nigeria, stressing losing on penalty kicks depends on luck.
He stressed that the current Africa Cup of Nations has witnessed high levels of performance from all the teams.
