Egypt goalkeeper Mostafa Ahmed Shobeir has shared his excitement after making his first appearance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament, being held in Morocco.
Shobeir, who plies his trade for Egyptian giants Al Ahly made his debut at the continental showpiece on Monday, as the Pharaohs held Angola to a pulsating goalless draw.
Having already booked a place in the knockout stage, Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan made several changes to his starting lineup, giving opportunities to several fringe players in the team, with Shobeir no exception.
“I am happy with my first participation in the Africa Cup of Nations. It’s an honor to represent my country in such a big event,” Shobeir told a television programme after the game.
Meanwhile, the 25-year-old shot stopper has eulogized his teammates following their unbeaten group stage run at the tournament.
“Angola were the best at the start of the game, but we played well after that. All the players performed well to maintain our unbeaten run,” Shobeir added.
Egypt had already secured a place in the round of 16 after back-to-back wins over Zimbabwe (2-1) and South Africa (1-0).
They top Group B with seven points, one ahead of second-placed South Africa, who defeated Zimbabwe 3-2 on Monday.
The Pharaohs will begin their round of 16 campaign on Monday against one of the best third-placed teams from the other groups.
