Roy Vitoria, the head coach of the Egyptian national team, provided insights into the match between “The Pharaohs” and Cape Verde, which ended in a 2-2 draw, propelling both teams to the Round of 16 in the Africa Cup of Nations hosted by Ivory Coast.
Speaking at a press conference after the Egypt vs. Cape Verde match, Vitoria emphasized the significance of the encounter, stating, “The match was crucial, and our team demonstrated more activity, managing to come back and equalize after falling behind by a goal.”
Vitoria added, “The ball did not favor us today despite giving our all. We’ve faced a degree of adversity with the ball throughout the tournament, and a similar situation occurred in the previous match, resulting in another draw.”
Continuing his remarks, Vitoria stated, “We have worked extensively, diversified our strategies, and progressed beyond the group stage to enter the knockout phase.
Africa boasts very strong teams.”
Addressing Mohamed Salah’s absence from the Egyptian national team, Vitoria commented, “Before the match, we were aware that the injury would take some time, and we confirmed that.
The Egyptian medical staff is excellent, highly experienced, and we have complete trust in them.
In agreement with the player and Liverpool, we looked for the best solution to ensure Salah’s speedy recovery.
Here in Ivory Coast, the facilities are not extensive, and with the qualification, we preferred him to travel for treatment.”
Vitoria concluded, stating, “It is not true that Liverpool imposes its opinion on us through intermediaries or any means.
Salah insisted on staying until today’s match to support his teammates.
Now, there will be cooperation between the Egyptian medical staff and Liverpool’s counterparts to find the best solution for the player’s recovery.
We have explored some options, and the process is progressing well, both from the medical team’s side and the player.”
Egypt, seven-time titleholders, advanced to the Round of 16 with a 2-2 draw against Cape Verde, the group leaders in the second-round finale.
Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet (50) and Mohamed Mustafa (90+3) scored Egypt’s goals, benefiting from Mozambique’s draw against Ghana, which secured Egypt’s second place in the group with 3 points from 3 draws.
