Egypt Dismisses Hossam Hassan as Head Coach Ahead of 2027 AFCON Qualifiers
Egypt’s national team faces a major change as Hossam Hassan is dismissed from his coaching role just days before two crucial matches in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
Egypt is going through a period of change just days before returning to international action. The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) held a board meeting to review recent events surrounding the team and determine the next steps for its sporting project.
The decision comes at an important stage for the Pharaohs, who are looking to maintain their strong start in the qualifying campaign for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations. However, recent issues surrounding the national team accelerated a decision that will alter its immediate plans.
Hossam Hassan Leaves the Dugout as Ali Maher Takes Over
The EFA announced Hossam Hassan’s departure as Egypt’s head coach, along with the dismissal of his entire coaching and administrative staff. In its official statement, the governing body said recent events had affected the national team’s image and stability.
His replacement will be Ali Maher, who was previously in charge of Ceramica Cleopatra. The federation has appointed him to lead the national team for the upcoming period and asked him to present a proposal for his new coaching staff.
Hassan took charge in February 2024 and guided Egypt to the semifinals of the 2025 AFCON and the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, in recent months, he also faced scrutiny over several public incidents and reports of disagreements with members of the squad, including Mohamed Salah. These situations played a part in the final stage of his tenure.
Ali Maher Arrives After Recent Success in Egyptian Football
The new head coach, 52, arrives after achieving notable results with Ceramica Cleopatra. His recent accomplishments include winning the 2024-25 Egyptian League Cup and guiding the club to a fourth-place finish in the domestic league last season.
He will now have to adapt quickly to the national team environment and put together his first squad. One of his main challenges will be maintaining the competitiveness of a team featuring experienced players and coming off a significant World Cup campaign.
Egypt Set to Face Malawi in Upcoming Qualifiers
Maher’s first matches will come at an important moment: Egypt will face Malawi on November 13 and 17, in the third and fourth rounds of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers. The Pharaohs currently lead Group B with four points after beating South Sudan and drawing against Angola.
According to the federation’s plans, the team will begin its training camp on November 9 at the National Teams Center. With little time available, the new coach will have to work quickly on his squad selection and preparations. His first results will offer an early indication of Egypt’s direction following Hassan’s departure.
