Egypt’s national team coach, Hossam Hassan, justified substituting Emam Ashour after 30 minutes of the Zimbabwe match as a “technical decision,” indicating that the Al-Ahly star will play an important role in the Pharaohs’ upcoming matches in the Africa Cup of Nations.
Despite Emam Ashour’s decent performance in the opening minutes and his missed opportunities, Hossam Hassan decided to replace him with Mostafa Mohamed, a decision that angered most of the Pharaohs’ fans.
After Egypt’s victory with goals from Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush, when asked about the reason for substituting Emam Ashour, the coach replied, “The substitution of Emam Ashour was 100% technical because I felt he was physically affected after recently returning from illness.”
He added, “Emam is a great player and will have an important role in the upcoming matches.”
He added, “Emam Ashour is trying his best, and I needed him in the playmaker position because he has great potential, and I’m completely convinced of his abilities. Substituting him was in his best interest and the team’s, as he wouldn’t have been able to handle the pressure.”
He concluded, “I’m not afraid to make any changes; the most important thing is the tactical vision, and the players understand that very well.”
Egypt will face South Africa next Friday in the second round of group matches. A win would guarantee the Nile Valley’s qualification for the round of 16 before their match against Angola on Monday.
