Egypt coach Hossam Hassan outlines AFCON qualification objective after Angola draw

Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has outlined his main objective for the Pharaohs’ 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign after they were held to a goalless draw by Angola in their opening Group B fixture.

The seven-time African champions were unable to break down a well-organised Angolan defence at the Cairo International Stadium on Friday, despite creating several opportunities throughout the encounter.

While the result meant Egypt dropped two points on home soil, Hassan has already shifted his attention towards the next fixture, making it clear that the ultimate target is to secure qualification for the tournament.

“Our focus right now is entirely shifted toward the South Sudan match. Our primary objective is to collect the maximum number of points in the qualifiers to officially secure qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations,” Hassan said.

The Egyptian coach acknowledged the need for special preparation ahead of the next assignment, with the Pharaohs set to face South Sudan on September 29.

Hassan highlighted the playing surface as one of the factors that will require attention, as the match will be played on artificial turf.

“The South Sudan match requires special preparation because it will be played on artificial turf,” he added.

Egypt began their campaign hoping to take maximum points at home, but Angola frustrated the hosts for long periods and secured a valuable point in Cairo.

Despite the disappointing result, Hassan defended his players’ efforts and expressed satisfaction with their overall performance.

“I am satisfied with the performance in the match. Everyone did what they had to do, and every player exerted their maximum effort and did not spare a single drop of sweat,” he said.

Hassan also addressed the decision to substitute Mohamed Salah during the match, explaining that the Egypt captain’s withdrawal was a tactical decision based on the demands of the encounter.

“Replacing Mohamed Salah was a tactical decision depending on the requirements and progression of the match,” the coach explained.

With one point from their opening qualifier, Egypt will now look to respond against South Sudan and strengthen their position in Group B.

Hassan’s immediate focus is therefore on turning the Pharaohs’ next fixture into a winning one as Egypt continue their pursuit of qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.