Egypt's Golden Next: A Fresh Battle for Africa's Crown in Morocco
8 October 2025
Egypt's Next Challenge After World Cup Qualification
Egypt’s national team didn’t linger on the celebration after securing a spot at the 2026 World Cup; the squad’s gaze quickly turned toward Africa Cup of Nations 2025 in Morocco, scheduled from December 21 to January 18. The mood is triumphant, yet the objective is clear: reclaim the continent’s crown that has eluded Egypt since 2010.
Following the joy of a decisive 3-0 win over Djibouti in the qualifiers, the players agreed that celebrations must be brief and the real work begins now. The dream is to lift the AFCON trophy for the eighth time, completing a remarkable turnaround for a nation that tasted continental success over a decade ago.
Mohamed El-Shenawy: A New Dream and a Nod to the Legends
The captain of Al Ahly and Egypt, Mohamed El-Shenawy, spoke with resolve after qualification, saying the World Cup qualification is a deserved achievement dedicated to the patient Egyptian people who deserved this joy. He noted that the journey wasn’t as easy as some might think, and highlighted the many players who fought with honor throughout the long, challenging campaign.
El-Shenawy also praised the coaching staff led by Hossam Hassan, describing him as a towering figure who has given the team a strong identity both on and off the pitch. He stressed that the goal of qualification was set clearly from day one and remains a driving force for the squad.
He emphasized that Egypt now possesses a generation capable of clinching the AFCON title in Morocco, with a deep pool of talent across all positions and a mix of experienced stars and rising talents ready to write a new chapter in Egyptian football history.
El-Shenawy also shared his personal dream of playing in another World Cup—an achievement never seen before by an Egyptian goalkeeper—and spoke warmly of the legendary Essam El-Hadary as a guiding influence both on and off the field.
Mohand Lasheen: A Moment to Write History
Mohand Lasheen, a key midfielder for Pyramids FC and the national team, expressed immense pride in earning a place at the World Cup and insisted the journey is far from over. He described Hossam Hassan as a father-figure who fosters a winning mindset every day and praised the coach’s approach, which centers on discipline and collective spirit.
Lasheen argued that the current squad has the ambition and the mental strength to add AFCON to their growing list of achievements, underscoring the importance of the group’s cohesion and commitment both inside and outside the training camp.
He added that the team’s dream is to win Africa’s flagship competition in Morocco, not merely to participate, and that a best-ever showing could set a new standard for Egyptian football. He stressed that the current generation has everything needed to push Egypt back to the summit of African football and that the fans’ belief fuels the players’ drive.
Momentum and the Big Picture
Amid the high expectations, the players acknowledged the tough road ahead, with some opponents now featuring players plying their trade in top European leagues. The aim, as expressed by several teammates, is to balance a demanding club calendar with national-team duties while keeping focus on both the World Cup journey and the AFCON trophy in Morocco.
In parallel, the squad’s leadership reiterated the importance of teamwork, humility, and resilience as the foundation for a successful continental campaign. The looming challenge in December promises to test this generation’s mettle as they chase a landmark return to Africa’s throne.
Aspirations Across the Board
Hany also spoke about the group’s vitality, noting the presence of players in some of the world’s biggest clubs and his belief that the World Cup qualification is just the opening act. He highlighted the need to manage a packed schedule and stay prepared for a grueling road ahead, with Morocco hosting elevating expectations across the board.
What’s Next for Egypt?
The consensus among players and staff is clear: the journey toward AFCON 2025 in Morocco is a serious, high-stakes mission that could redefine Egyptian football. If the current generation can carry its momentum into December’s tournament and beyond, the dream of a continental title—coupled with another World Cup appearance—could become a historic reality.
As December approaches, the eyes of Egyptian fans remain fixed on Morocco, hoping to relive the golden era under a fresh banner. The fans crave a new chapter that echoes past glories while writing new ones, proving that Egyptian football truly knows no impossibility.
Punchline 1: If ambition had a sniper scope, this team just zeroed in—talk about a precise shot at glory. Boom, a target locked and a net buzzing!
Punchline 2: They say football is a game of inches; for Egypt, it’s centimeters—just enough to thread the needle and leave the crowd asking for more.
