AFCON 2025: Our target is to lift the trophy – Egypt coach Hossam Hassan

Egypt’s head coach Hossam Hassan has set his sights firmly on lifting the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy, determined to restore the national side to continental glory.

Drawn into Group B alongside South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe, the seven-time champions will open their campaign on Monday.

Speaking ahead of the match, Hassan, a three-time AFCON winner as a player, stressed that Egypt possesses both the experience and mentality required to go all the way—despite a title drought since 2010.

“Everyone in the Egyptian national team already has a winning mentality, which is fantastic. Thank God, I managed to win titles with the Egyptian national team as a player in 1998, 2006, and 2008,” he told CAF Media.

“We will do everything possible to reach the top and lift the trophy again this year. Achieving that requires tremendous effort from every member of the team.”

Hassan also highlighted Egypt’s historic place in African football.

“Egypt is always among the favourites in any competition because of its rich history, particularly in the Africa Cup of Nations, where we hold the record with seven titles.”

While recognising the strength of their group rivals, Hassan insisted that Egypt’s focus remains on winning each match.

“I have great respect and admiration for them. All teams in the group are strong and have important, professional players. African football has developed a lot in recent years, but we will give our all to win the title and make the Egyptian people happy.”

Egypt will kick off their AFCON 2025 campaign against Zimbabwe at Stade Adrar, with kickoff scheduled for 20:00 GMT.