Egypt's Striker Blames Missed Chances as Pharaohs Stumble to Kuwait Draw in Arab Cup
2 December 2025
Match Report
Kareem Al-Iraqi, a member of Egypts Arab Cup squad, said the Pharaohs controlled most of the match in the Kuwait game, which finished 1-1 on Tuesday night in Group C opening round.
Al-Iraqi later told reporters on television that Egypt produced solid play and repeatedly threatened Kuwait's goal with several attempts, but fortune did not favor them in securing the victory.
He also added that the Egyptian team eyes a win in the next two rounds against the UAE and Jordan to reach the knockout stage in Qatar.
Hosam Hassan, Egypts striker, commented that the ball punished the Pharaohs for wasted chances in the first half.
He said Egypt will not surrender and will fight for qualification, only needing luck in the next two matches.
Mohamed Awad, Egypts goalkeeper, expressed satisfaction with the result despite Egypt missing numerous scoring opportunities.
Awad added that the team will fix the mistakes and maximize their chances.
Kuwaiti Response
Suleiman Abdul Ghafour, Kuwaits goalkeeper, said the team earned a draw and believed they played well to win, but small details decided the result and they will try to improve.
Abdul Ghafour noted that Egypt is seen as Africas leader and a title contender with players who have shone in Africa and in Europe.
He added that Egypt had the edge before the match, but on the field the game was even, with Kuwait's players showing excellent organization.
Abdul Ghafour also praised the Arab Cups vibrant atmosphere and said Kuwaiti fans always back the Blue with spirit.
He pledged to give his best and push for a knockout berth.
Mohammed Al-Dhafiri, Kuwait's player, thanked teammates for their hard work and the fans for their support.
He added that they played well despite Egypts dominance in parts of the first half, and they missed a clear chance before Egypts second penalty; but a draw is a positive result against a title contender.
Punchline 1: The ball tried to score but the keeper gave it a standing ovation for effort. Punchline 2: If football had a sense of humor, the scoreboard would be laughing last.
