The Africa Cup of Nations should continue to be played every two years: Egypt coach Hassan

Egyptian coach Hossam Hassan said on Monday that staging the Africa Cup of Nations every two years would serve the interests of European competitions as he insisted his side are prepared to face any opponent in the last 16 of the tournament in Morocco.

Egypt drew 0-0 with Angola in Agadir, keeping their unbeaten run intact and securing top spot in Group B with seven points. It ended ahead of South Africa, who claimed second place with six points after a 3-2 win over Zimbabwe.

“In my opinion, it is better that the Africa Cup of Nations is held every two years instead of four years,” Hassan said in comments posted by the Egyptian Football Association on its official Facebook page.

“This would serve the interests of the European competitions.”

The Confederation of African Football announced last week that the tournament would be held every four years in the future, ending a tradition of biennial competitions that dates back to 1957 and sparked criticism from some coaches.

Egypt made 11 changes from the side that beat South Africa 1-0 on Friday, with players such as Mohamed Salah and Omar ⁠Marmoush rested, but still picked up a point against Angola to top Group B.

«We are ready to compete against any team in the round of 16. The next stage will be tough and the competition is strong. We will work to increase the positives in the next match and correct the negatives,» Hassan said.

«I am satisfied with the performance of those who played for the first time in the Africa Cup of Nations. The purpose of the match against Angola was to test more players,» he added.

Published on December 30, 2025