Egyptian Football Chief Thanks Agadir Fans for a Heartfelt AFCON Welcome
13 January 2026
Gratitude to Agadir hosts
Hany Abourida, the president of the Egyptian Football Association, sent a formal letter thanking the residents of Agadir, Morocco, for the warm hospitality shown to the Egyptian national team and its supporters during the Africa Cup of Nations.
In his message addressed to Fouzi Lekjaa, head of the Moroccan Football Federation, and the Governor of Agadir, he praised the evident camaraderie and the feeling of belonging that made Egypt feel among friends rather than guests.
AFCON spirit, organization, and future horizons
He recalled that the team stayed in Agadir through the semifinals, trained across the city, and heard players say they felt at home among the people of Agadir, a factor he sees as key to the high level of performance.
Abourida thanked the organizers, the stadiums, and staff for the flawless arrangements and expressed a wish for Morocco to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, noting that the competition showcased Arab and African brotherhood.
Finally, he mentioned that the Egyptian delegation moved to Tangier for the semifinal stage, signing off with gratitude to the city’s residents and officials.
Players and staff also felt hospitality extended beyond football, with hotel staff and locals ensuring every need was met, a gesture he said reflected the shared love for the sport across Africa.
Punchline 1: If hospitality were a trophy, Agadir would have a full cabinet by now.
Punchline 2: I came for the match and stayed for the friendship, because in football as in life, the real goal is goodwill and a good laugh.