By Victor Okoye
Egypt Coach Hossam Hassan has praised his players’ determination after their dramatic 3-2 quarter-final win over holders Cote d’Ivoire at the 2025 CAF Africa Cup of Nations.
Mohamed Salah scored and assisted as the Pharaohs resisted Ivory Coast pressure, with clinical finishing making the difference against the Elephants’ territorial dominance.
Hassan said every match was treated as a final.
“Since we arrived, I’ve always said that every match is like a final for us. That’s our approach for every opponent,” he said.
He expressed pride in his players’ effort and qualification.
“I’m very happy about our qualification. The players gave everything, and I’m proud of them,” Hassan said.
Hassan credited preparation for the team’s performance.
“We knew they were the reigning champions. We respected them and put a plan in place, which worked today,” he said.
He admitted mistakes cost goals but remained confident.
“It’s true we made mistakes that led to two goals, but we scored three. We will correct these shortcomings for the next matches,” Hassan said.
The Pharaohs will face Senegal’s Lions of Teranga on Wednesday in Tanger, while Morocco meet Nigeria in Rabat in the other semi-final. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Joseph Edeh
