What did Egypt coach Hossam Hassan say about Moroccan fans’ support for Nigeria in the African Cup?

Egypt national team coach, Hossam Hassan, spoke about the incident of Moroccan fans cheering for the Nigerian team during the third-place match against the “Pharaohs” on Saturday, within the 2025 African Cup of Nations, which ended in favor of the “Premier Eagles” 4-2 on penalties (regular time 0-0).

Hossam Hassan said during the press conference after the match: “There is no comment. Everyone is free to choose who to support, and we respect everyone.”

He added: “We feel proud of what any Arab or African team performs in major tournaments, including the World Cup, and we will not hold anyone accountable for encouraging them on the field. Our focus is solely on developing the team and improving its level.”

Hossam Hassan had sparked widespread controversy with his statements in the African Cup after losing to Senegal and exiting the competition in the semi-finals. He criticized the organization and the fans, which angered the Moroccan fans, who attended the third-place match and supported the Nigerian national team.