Egyptian football star Mahmoud Abdel Razek, commonly known as Shikabala, has publicly criticized Hossam Hassan, the technical director of Egypt's national football team. Shikabala's comments come after Egypt's 0-0 draw against Angola in the first round of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The match took place on September 25, 2026, at Cairo Stadium. Shikabala expressed his dissatisfaction with Hassan's tactics during the game.
Shikabala voiced his concerns over Egypt's playing style in the match, stating that they employed the same tactics used in the World Cup. He believes this approach was not suitable for the game against Angola. According to Shikabala, Egypt should have adopted a more aggressive strategy, especially when playing at home. He questioned the decision to play Imad Ashour on the left side during the match.
The former Zamalek star also criticized Hassan's substitution policy, particularly the decision to bench Omar Marmoush and replace Mahmoud Saber with Marmoush in the 40th minute. Shikabala argued that Marmoush should have started the game. He accused Hassan of being stubborn and trying to prove a point by benching Marmoush and also suggested that Hassan wanted to take credit for introducing Mohamed Salah to the team.
Shikabala expressed his frustration with Hassan's decision to substitute Mohamed Salah out of the game in the 60th minute. He questioned what tactical decision Hassan could have made that Salah would not have been able to execute. Shikabala's comments reflect his disappointment with Egypt's performance and Hassan's tactics in the match against Angola.
The 0-0 draw against Angola has raised concerns about Egypt's prospects in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The team's performance has been subject to criticism, with many calling for changes in the team's strategy and player selection. Shikabala's comments add to the growing debate about the team's future and the role of coach Hossam Hassan.
Shikabala's criticism of Hassan's tactics and decisions has sparked a heated debate among Egyptian football fans. While some have supported Shikabala's views, others have defended Hassan's approach. The controversy highlights the challenges facing Egypt's national team as they seek to improve their performance in the qualifiers.
The Egyptian Football Association has yet to respond to Shikabala's comments. However, the team's performance and Hassan's tactics are likely to remain under scrutiny as the qualifiers progress. Egypt's next match in the qualifiers will be closely watched, as fans and critics alike wait to see if the team can improve its performance and secure a win.
Key points
- Shikabala criticizes Hossam Hassan's tactics in Egypt's 0-0 draw against Angola.
- Shikabala questions Hassan's decision to substitute Mohamed Salah out of the game.
- The draw has raised concerns about Egypt's prospects in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
