A Moroccan sports website has claimed that the conduct of Egypt’s coaching staff following their Africa Cup of Nations round-of-16 victory over Benin sparked anger among local supporters, saying Moroccan fans had expected a more conciliatory response from the Hassan brothers.
According to Elbotola, the reaction of Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan and his assistant, Ibrahim Hassan, after Monday’s 3-1 extra-time win was viewed by sections of the home crowd as provocative and out of step with the atmosphere inside Adrar Stadium in Agadir.
The report suggested frustration first emerged after Mohamed Salah scored Egypt’s third goal, when footage circulated of Hossam Hassan heading towards the stands and appearing to speak in an agitated manner.
The website added that the situation escalated after the final whistle, alleging that Ibrahim Hassan greeted only Egyptian supporters before making a gesture interpreted as a deliberate snub of Moroccan fans.
The incident reportedly triggered angry reactions inside the stadium, despite the strong backing Morocco’s supporters had given Egypt earlier in the tournament.
Elbotola noted that Moroccan fans’ displeasure was heightened by the support they had offered the Pharaohs during the group stage, with large crowds in Agadir providing vocal backing that drew praise from regional media.
The website said supporters had anticipated gestures that reflected mutual respect and sporting solidarity between the two nations.
The report concluded that the episode reignited debate over the behaviour of members of Egypt’s technical staff at a time when relations between the two fan bases had been largely positive.
Egypt secured their place in the quarter-finals after a 3-1 victory over Benin in a match that went to extra time, and will now face the winner of the tie between Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso on Saturday.
Hossam Hassan later rejected the criticism, insisting the situation had been misunderstood.
He stressed that he held Moroccan fans in high regard and described his actions as a momentary emotional reaction within the intensity of the match.
