AFCON 2025: Hossam Hassan talks about the injuries that befell his team before facing Bafana Bafana! | OneFootball

The Pharaohs' coach is worried because of some injuries.

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With the crucial Group B clash against Bafana Bafana looming this Friday in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt's national team coach Hossam Hassan is grappling with concerns over the fitness of three key players.

The Pharaohs began their quest for a record-extending eighth title with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe. The winning goal came deep into stoppage time from captain Mohamed Salah, sparing his team from a disappointing start.

The legendary former Pharaohs striker identified the concerning trio: Emam Ashour, who was forced off early in the first half; left-back Mohamed Hamdi; and forward Mostafa Mohamed.

Despite these worries, Hassan expressed full confidence in the performances of goalkeeper Mohamed El Shennawy and captain Mohamed Salah following their display in the opening match.

"Salah and El Shennawy performed very well in the last match. And I am pleased with their contribution," the Egyptian coach said. "We faced a difficult opponent with a strong history against us, which led to us conceding the first goal. However, our overall performance was solid. While many teams in this tournament have failed to earn a single corner kick, we were a constant threat."

This statement comes as the Egyptian team, which dominated possession and created numerous chances in its first match, seeks to address the defensive lapse that allowed Young Africans forward Prince Dube to score the opening goal in the 20th minute.