The Egyptian Football Association, along with Al Ahly and Zamalek clubs, has secured $1.5 million for hosting the Egypt Cup final, slated for March of this year, according to an anonymous source within the football governing body.
The source confirmed that the Egyptian Football Association will receive $1 million, while both Al Ahly and Zamalek will each receive half a million dollars, equating to $250,000 for each team for their participation in the final match of the Egypt Cup championship.
Furthermore, it was clarified that the Egyptian Football Association, through its sponsoring company, is open to accepting all offers in accordance with the financial agreement with any Arab country interested in hosting Egyptian tournaments.
The popularity of Al Ahly and Zamalek in the Arab world often prompts some nations to vie for the chance to host them, especially in the context of official championships.
Meanwhile, Ahmad Al-Kass awaits an official decision from the Egyptian Football Association regarding his inclusion in the coaching staff of Hossam Hassan, the national team’s head coach.
It is expected that “The Dean” will finalize his coaching staff during a press conference scheduled to be held at a major hotel next Wednesday.
On another note, Hossam Hassan, the head coach, is embarking on a European tour in the coming period to monitor professional players, meet with them, and resolve any issues they may have before the team’s first camp scheduled for March, to participate in friendly matches against Croatia and Tunisia.
Hossam Hassan, during his participation in the African Legends Conference held in Ivory Coast on the sidelines of the Africa Cup of Nations, expressed his pride and gratitude that Egypt, his homeland, has won the title seven times throughout its history in the African Cup of Nations.
He said, “I was fortunate to participate seven times in the Africa Cup of Nations, winning three titles in 1986, 1998, and 2006.”
He continued, “The 1998 title was the toughest in the history of the Egyptian national team, as Mahmoud El-Gohary, the team’s coach at the time, formed a new generation with only two experienced players, Hany Ramzy and myself.”
He added, “Everyone in Egypt knew at the time that the national team would return quickly from Burkina Faso and would not compete for the title.”
He further commented, “The Egyptian team faced strong opponents, the latest being the South African national team, which held the title and had a great generation.”
In his opinion, “The 1998 edition was tougher than the 2006 edition, and I delivered my best performances during it.”
He concluded by saying, “African football deserves the best because it has possessed great talents throughout its history.”
