Angola goalkeeper Hugo Marquez hails Egypt’s Mostafa Shobeir as one of Africa’s best

Angola goalkeeper Hugo Marquez has praised Egypt shot-stopper Mostafa Shobeir, describing him as one of the best players in Africa ahead of Friday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Cairo.

The Palancas Negras will face Egypt at the Cairo International Stadium in their opening Group B qualifier on Friday, with both sides looking to make a positive start to their campaign.

Speaking to ON Sport, Marquez heaped praise on Shobeir for his outstanding performance for Egypt at the 2026 World Cup in North America, while ranking him as one of the best in Africa.

“I congratulate Mostafa Shobeir on his outstanding performance in the World Cup. He is one of the best players in Africa right now, as is Mohamed El Shenawy, who is a very big star in the Egyptian national team and Al Ahly,” Marquez said.

Meanwhile, Marquez, who plies his trade for Petro Atletico has eulogized the Pharaohs for their impressive display at the World Cup, where the North African giants defied odds to reach the knockout stage for the first time in their history.

“I would like to congratulate the Egyptian national team on their outstanding performance in the 2026 World Cup, and congratulations to everyone,” he said.

Marquez admitted that Angola face a difficult task against Egypt, particularly with the Pharaohs playing on home soil in front of their supporters.

“Our first match here in Egypt will be very difficult, it is a very tough match, but we are preparing for it well, especially since the Egyptian national team on its home ground and in front of its fans is a very strong opponent, and we will see what happens,” he added.

The Angolan goalkeeper then singled out Mostafa Shobeir for special praise, while also highlighting the experience and quality of Mohamed El Shenawy.

Egypt and Angola are in Group B of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers alongside Malawi and South Sudan, with the tournament set to be hosted jointly by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.