Egypt’s narrow 1–0 victory over South Africa on Friday, December 26, 2025, strengthened their position in Group B of the Africa Cup of Nations and drew glowing praise from head coach Hossam Hassan, who described the triumph as a reward for unity and perseverance.
Speaking after the final whistle, the former striker was keen to credit both the players on the pitch and the fans in the stands for creating the conditions that carried his side through a demanding evening.
“I thank the Egyptian, Moroccan and Arab supporters for their encouragement, and I thank the players for the efforts made during today’s match,” Hassan said, acknowledging the wide base of backing that accompanied the Pharaohs in Rabat.
The match itself was a contest of fine margins, with Egypt forced to grind for every metre against a South African side that has grown in confidence in recent years.
Rather than dwell on tactical specifics, Hassan framed the performance as an expression of mentality, insisting that his team has adopted a relentless approach to the tournament.
“I approach every match as if it were a final,” Hassan explained, underlining his belief that consistency of attitude is as important as technical quality in major competitions.
That sense of seriousness, he argued, was reflected in how Egypt navigated the challenges posed by their opponents.
South Africa, who arrived off the back of an opening-day victory, were never going to be straightforward opposition, and Hassan was quick to stress his respect for them.
“We managed to take three points against a great team, and African football has become stronger thanks to professionalism,” Hassan said, broadening his remarks to highlight the rapid evolution of the continental game.
Yet the heart of his message focused squarely on character.
For Hassan, the significance of the result lay not only in the three points secured but in the manner in which his players coped with pressure.
“The true value of the Egyptian player emerges in difficult moments,” Hassan declared, portraying the evening as a test of resolve that his squad passed.
That theme resonated with supporters who have grown accustomed to Egypt being judged by its achievements in adversity.
With expectations high at every Africa Cup of Nations, the Pharaohs are rarely afforded the luxury of easing their way into tournaments.
Hassan made clear that his own motivation is rooted in that reality and in the relationship between the national side and its followers.
“My goal is to make the Egyptian people happy, and football is a source of joy for the Egyptian citizen,” Hassan said, suggesting that each success carries emotional weight far beyond the stadium walls.
When the conversation turned towards the officials, however, the coach was careful to steer clear of controversy.
Refusing to be drawn into a debate over refereeing decisions, he closed ranks around the match officials.
“I have no comment to make on the referees’ decisions: I have confidence in the referees of the continent and of the competition, and I do not interfere in their decisions,” Hassan concluded.
With six points now within reach after two group matches, Egypt appear firmly on course for the knockout phase.
More importantly for Hassan, the victory over South Africa has reinforced his conviction that, when tested, his players possess the mental strength required to meet the heaviest demands of the Africa Cup of Nations.
