Egypt coach Hossam Hassan faces a serious dilemma after being accused of provoking Moroccan fans during his team’s 3-1 win over Benin in the AFCON 2025 last 16 in Agadir.
Cameras caught him turning toward the stands and making an unclear gesture after Mohamed Salah scored Egypt’s third goal, sparking debate in Moroccan media about his behaviour. Further controversy followed the final whistle when Ibrahim Hassan appeared to greet only the Egyptian supporters, in what was interpreted as a deliberate snub of the Moroccan crowd.
The situation is sensitive because CAF’s disciplinary regulations are strict on this type of incident. Article 147 states that any person who provokes the crowd during a match faces a three-game ban and a fine of at least 10,000 US dollars. If the disciplinary committee confirms that Hassan did provoke the supporters, he could be suspended for the remainder of Egypt’s campaign, with a maximum of three matches left should they reach the final.
Hassan has firmly rejected the accusations, explaining that his gesture was misinterpreted. He stressed that he had already praised the Moroccan fans for backing Egypt at the Adrar Stadium and added: “I did not intend to insult the Moroccan fans.. I am happy with this support, so how could I attack or criticise them?”
