Egypt's Roar After AFCON Shock: Hassan Calls Egypt Africa's Boogeyman
14 January 2026
Egypt\'s Coach Slams Referee After AFCON Semi-Final Defeat
Hossam Hassan, the head coach of Egypt, voiced deep disappointment after a 0-1 defeat to Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-final held in Morocco.
In the post-match press conference, he said the Egyptian side had pushed to reach the final but fortune wasn\'t on their side.
He added that he is proud of his players and what they delivered throughout the tournament and their relentless effort to win every match.
Reflections, Envy, and a Boastful Stance
The Pharaohs\' coach stated that what happened was not professional; they had only two days to rest, traveled from Agadir to Tangier, and even changed the training hotel and stadium ahead of the match.
He stated that some people were worried about Egypt\'s potential to reach the final, but the coach was grateful for everything. He told the Pharaohs\' players that they were champions for reaching the semi-finals.
He asserted that envy surrounds Egypt; the team has won seven titles in the continental tournament, a record that no one can match.
He clarified that he would not discuss what happened on the pitch or the atmosphere, noting that he asked the players not to dwell on such matters.
He added that he is happy with what happened because it shows Egypt is big and strong, the mother of Arabs and Africa in history, with trophies and power, and that no one is like Egypt.
He also said that the players should be reminded that Egypt is Africa\'s Boogeyman and the continent\'s lions, proudly wearing a jersey bearing seven stars.
Hossam Hassan criticized Gabon\'s referee Pierre Acheo, saying it was illogical to stop five minutes of stoppage time while the second half featured around nine substitutions, a goal, and a video review amid injuries.
He argued the referee overlooked important late plays, including a foul near the box, and that he simply wanted his rightful due on the pitch.
Finally, he noted that Senegal did not create many chances but scored from a long-range shot with a touch of luck as the ball moved from foot to foot before a surprising finish.
Concluding, he said Egypt played more attacking late but could not find the net, and he remains proud of his players under any circumstances.
Punchline 1: In Africa, when rivals sleep on you, they wake up to your shadow—Egypt’s reputation precedes them even into the locker room.
Punchline 2: If there were a Nobel Prize for swagger, Egypt would win twice—one for football, one for keeping the continent on its toes.
