Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has rowed back on earlier criticism of Morocco and delivered strong praise for the country’s organization of the recent Africa Cup of Nations.
He described Morocco’s infrastructure and tournament hosting as being on a “European” level, highlighting how impressed he was during Egypt’s participation.
Hassan had previously spoken angrily after Egypt’s semi-final defeat to Senegal, complaining about travel arrangements and what he felt was unfair refereeing against the Pharaohs. His twin brother Ibrahim also criticized some organizational aspects, claiming the team stayed in a modest “pension” where players struggled to sleep because of mosquitoes.
In a new press conference attended by Sports Minister Ashraf Sobhi and Egyptian FA president Hani Abou Rida, Hassan struck a very different tone. He said: “It was the toughest edition and the stadiums were perfectly prepared, and I was happy to be in a tournament held in a brotherly Arab African country.”
He continued: “We found all respect and appreciation in Morocco, in daily life and accommodation, and this edition was very important in the history of Egyptian football.” He added that, from his long experience as a player and coach, he saw facilities and infrastructure in Morocco comparable to Europe, along with constant security and excellent lodging.
Hassan stressed that he enjoyed being there regardless of some fans backing other teams against Egypt, saying that was their right and possibly due to viewing Egypt as a title rival or reacting to comments about refereeing in the Morocco–Tanzania match.
He concluded that Egypt “had a distinguished stay, good treatment, and full security in all movements,” describing Morocco as a refined country like Egypt “in everything.” He underlined that the tournament was “very successful” with strong infrastructure, and that Egypt were hosted in a place worthy of Africa from the group stage onward.
