Egypt Shakes Off Heartbreak: Aboutrika Reflects on AFCON Semi-Final Exit to Senegal
14 January 2026
Egypt's AFCON semi-final setback fuels Aboutrika's reflections
In a post-match reflection, Mohamed Aboutrika, former Egypt star, expressed sorrow after the Pharaohs were edged by Senegal 0-1 in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-final held in Morocco.
Speaking on BeIN Sports, Aboutrika said that Hossam Hassan, Egypt's head coach, had achieved the objective of reaching the semi-finals before the tournament. He noted that Egypt has seven AFCON titles and there was a desire to add another, but fate determined otherwise.
He added that the players had given a great effort, and God willing this tournament will serve as good preparation for the 2026 World Cup.
He also stressed that Egypt possesses the talent to play better football at the World Cup than in the match against Senegal.
And he wished Morocco luck in reaching the final and lifting the trophy.
Punchline: If optimism were a goalkeeper, Egypt would have kept a clean sheet—this time the ball had other ideas.
Punchline: Morocco hosting AFCON and World Cup dreams make for a packed travel itinerary, with extra time just part of the layover.
