Hossam Hassam dismisses allegations of tension with Moroccan supporters after gestures from the touchline spark debate on social media.
Egypt defeated Benin 3-1 after extra time in Agadir on Monday and secured a return to the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals.
Mohamed Salah sealed the victory deep into added time with a swift counter-attack goal in the 120th+4 minute.
The match delivered drama until the final seconds, but attention quickly shifted from the pitch to the stands.
As the contest moved towards its conclusion, cameras captured the Egyptian coach celebrating behind the touchline.
Hassam raised his right hand and made repeated movements with his index finger from right to left.
A short video clip of the sequence went viral within minutes and triggered speculation.
Some observers interpreted the gestures as a sign of disapproval aimed at sections of the crowd.
Others linked the actions to perceived support for Benin from local fans during the match.
Online commentators described the celebration as a possible provocation against Moroccan supporters and suggested unfriendly relations between coach and public.
Hassam responded firmly at the post-match press conference and denied any intention to offend.
The 59-year-old expressed clear surprise at the controversy and emphasized the warm reception offered to Egypt since the tournament began on December 21.
He praised both Egyptian and Moroccan fans and highlighted their enthusiasm throughout the evening.
“I thank the Egyptian and Moroccan fans who were present and supported us throughout the match,” he explains.
“The video that circulated on social media was misunderstood.
How could I possibly criticize the Moroccan fans in Agadir after all the support we received? The Moroccan public was incredible with us.”
The Egyptian coach insists the gestures reflected emotion shared with his players rather than retribution toward the stands.
He points to months of cooperation with Moroccan hosts and rejects the idea of hostility in Agadir.
“The Moroccan public was incredible with us,” he repeats. “They supported Egypt from the very beginning of this AFCON.”
Egypt return to the quarter-finals after a four-year absence and prepare for the next challenge with renewed confidence.
Hassam calls the qualification an important step and urges focus on football matters.
The Pharaohs will meet the winner of the Ivory Coast-Burkina Faso tie for a place in the semi-finals.
The debate over the viral video continues online, but Hassam considers the issue closed.
For him, Moroccan supporters remain valued allies in Egypt’s AFCON journey, and unfounded controversy should not overshadow a hard-earned victory.
Après la qualification pour les quarts de finale, Hossam Hassan, entraîneur de l’équipe d’Égypte, provoque les supporters présents après qu’ils ont encouragé le Bénin 🧐🇪🇬 pic.twitter.com/PvLnxF1LaA
— Hespress Français (@HespressFr) January 5, 2026
