When Sniper-like Confidence Meets Ivory Coast: Egypt Aims for AFCON 2025 Quarterfinals
9 January 2026
Ahead of the Ivory Coast clash
Words that raise questions before the showdown
Mahmoud Hassan "Trezeguet", a star of Egypt's national team, said the Pharaohs enter the Ivory Coast clash with great confidence, stressing that the squad has all the tools to secure victory in the quarter-final of AFCON 2025, currently hosted by Morocco.
His comments contrasted with those of Mohamed Salah, captain of Egypt, who expressed confidence that Africa's best players are in the Egyptian Premier League and can decide big matches.
During Friday's press conference, Trezeguet added: "We have the best players in the world, and the best in the Egyptian league are the best in Africa, each in his position, and we are fully ready to win and advance."
In contrast, Salah spoke after Egypt's 3-1 extra-time win over Benin in the Round of 16, noting the team's makeup in the tournament.
On Egypt's chances to lift AFCON 2025, Salah said: "We are among the favorites, but the competition isn't easy at all. All I can say is that our squad relies mostly on players from the Egyptian league."
Punchlines: 1) If football were a sniper, Egypt's plan would hit the target before the whistle even whispers. 2) Salah and Trezeguet are so confident the ball has filed for a season pass to the trophy room.
