Ali Maher outlines Egypt ambitions ahead of Malawi double-header

Ali Maher says Egypt must unite behind the national team as he prepares to take charge of the Pharaohs for the first time in an official match against Malawi in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Egypt will face Malawi on 13 and 17 November in the third and fourth rounds of qualifying. The fixtures will provide the first competitive test for Maher and his newly appointed coaching staff.

Speaking to On Sport, Maher thanked the previous management team, led by Hossam Hassan, and called for collective support around the national side.

“Any Egyptian coach has the right to manage the Pharaohs,” he said. “I thank Hossam and Ibrahim Hassan for what they gave to the national team. I have always sympathised with anyone who struggles and works hard in any field.

“We work, make every effort and continue. A person may fall and get back up many times, but becomes used to that. I hope everyone will rally around the Egypt national team.”

Maher was also asked about Mohamed Salah, who he described as a major influence within the squad and a source of pride for the country.

“I have outstanding players, including Mohamed Salah, the best player in Egypt’s history,” he said. “He is a major brand and we are all proud of him. He is also a role model for all the players.

“We have a strong group of professionals as well as domestic players, and we possess players of the highest level.”

Egypt’s opening fixture against Malawi is scheduled for 13 November 2026, with the return meeting taking place on 17 November.

Maher explains appointment

Maher said his agreement with the Egyptian Football Association was completed without difficulty and praised its president Hany Abu Rida and the other officials involved.

“Hany Abu Rida and the officials at the Egyptian Football Association are respectable people who want to do something for the country and have a clear vision,” he said. “The meeting to reach an agreement went very smoothly.”

He added that he had chosen members of his backroom team based on their ability to perform their roles and accept responsibility.

“I was keen to select people capable of giving their best in the positions they hold,” Maher said. “Everyone I chose is ready to take responsibility, loves working and has a genuine desire to do something for Egypt.”

Maher also made clear that his plans do not include appointing a director of the national team.

“This country deserves for us to work hard for it, and hopefully we will be able to offer something different,” he said.

The new Egypt head coach ended by asking supporters to stand behind the team and help the players feel supported.

“I hope everyone will rally around the national team and that the players will feel the support and love,” he said. “Hopefully, we will become a strong team that plays enjoyable football and is aggressive in both attack and defence.”