FIFA suspension is an honour for me – Egypt coach Hossam Hassan

Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has described his suspension by FIFA as an “honour” following the controversial incidents during the Pharaohs’ 2026 FIFA World Cup round-of-16 defeat to Argentina.

The world football governing body imposed sanctions on Hassan, his brother and national team director Ibrahim Hassan, as well as midfielder Mostafa Zico, following tensions between the Egyptian technical team and match officials after the Pharaohs’ elimination from the tournament.

The trio have also reportedly been handed a combined financial penalty estimated at $60,000, in addition to the suspensions.

Responding to the ruling, the 60-year-old tactician insisted he was unfazed by the ban, leaving the matter in God’s hands.

“The decision to suspend me by FIFA is an honour for me. I leave matters to God Almighty, and we will see what will happen in the future,” Hassan told Yalla Kora.

The disciplinary action followed protests by the Egyptian delegation against the referee during their dramatic 3-2 defeat to Argentina in the round of 16.

Egypt appeared on course for a historic quarter-final qualification after establishing a two-goal lead, but Argentina staged a remarkable comeback in the second half, scoring three times to end the Pharaohs’ campaign.

Despite the disappointment, Egypt enjoyed a landmark tournament, reaching the round of 16 for the first time in their World Cup history.

The Pharaohs also recorded their first-ever World Cup victory over New Zealand, winning 3-1 during the group stage. They collected five points after drawing 1-1 with Belgium and Iran before progressing to the knockout rounds.

Egypt subsequently eliminated Australia on penalties after a 1-1 draw in their round-of-32 encounter, setting up the meeting with Argentina.

Following their World Cup campaign, the North African side returned to action in September, drawing 0-0 with Angola before recording a commanding 5-0 victory over South Sudan in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. They also suffered a 1-0 defeat to South Africa in a friendly at Cairo Stadium.

Egypt are scheduled to face Malawi twice in November as they continue their preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.