Mohamed Salah of Egypt ©BackpagePix
by [Graeme Jackson](javascript:void(0))
Wednesday Dec 17, 2025. 14:00
Egypt enters the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco carrying both the prestige of a record seven-time champion and the hunger of a team determined to reclaim a crown that has eluded them since 2010.
Their last triumph completed an iconic hat-trick of titles, but the years that followed brought heartbreak, near-misses, and a persistent sense of unfinished business. This time, however, the Pharaohs arrive with strong form, structural stability, and a renewed sense of purpose, highlighted by two unbeaten qualification campaigns that underscore their readiness to challenge for Africa’s biggest prize.
In their AFCON qualifying campaign from September to November 2024, Egypt progressed comfortably and without defeat against Botswana, Mauritania, and Cape Verde—the latter of which qualified for their first-ever World Cup just a year later. The campaign was defined by control, professionalism, and tactical maturity.
The World Cup qualifiers mirrored that form: Egypt topped a group containing Burkina Faso, Sierra Leone, Guinea-Bissau, Ethiopia, and Djibouti, once again unbeaten, demonstrating the consistency that has been a hallmark of the nation’s golden eras.
At the heart of Egypt’s ambitions is national icon Mohamed Salah. Few players carry the symbolic weight he does, combining elite club success with unwavering commitment to the national cause. For Salah, AFCON 2025 represents a chance to cement his legacy with the major international title that has narrowly eluded him.
Arriving amid a challenging club season, Salah’s focus and determination could be sharper than ever. For Egypt, a motivated Salah is not just a weapon—it is a psychological anchor, a rallying point, and a force capable of lifting the entire squad.
Supporting him is a battle-hardened group guided by coach Hossam Hassan, himself a legend of Egyptian football. Players such as Mohamed El Shenawy, Ramy Rabia, Trezeguet, Zizo, Mohamed Elneny, Hamdy Fathy, Omar Marmoush, and Mostafa Mohamed provide experience, balance, and depth across the pitch. Their combination of defensive organisation, midfield discipline, and incisive attacking movement creates a foundation capable of absorbing pressure and exploiting critical moments—essential qualities for tournament success.
The challenge, as always, will be navigating the fine margins of knockout football against opponents skilled at disrupting Egypt’s rhythm. Yet the signs suggest this team is peaking at the right time. With history on their side and the drive to end a 15-year wait for continental glory, Egypt stands as one of the most compelling title contenders heading into Morocco.