Hossam Hassan: They want Messi to stay!

Hossam Hassan, the Egyptian national team coach, launched a scathing attack on global football officials, hinting at refereeing and marketing factors that contributed to the Pharaohs' elimination from the World Cup after their 3-2 loss to Argentina in the round of 16. In statements to beIN SPORTS, Hassan asserted that Egypt was the better side throughout the match, indicating that his team suffered from refereeing injustices that directly impacted the outcome . He said, "We were the better team, but football wasn't fair. We had a clear penalty, and our third goal was disallowed, and I don't know why." He added, "It might be related to marketing; they want the reigning world champions and Messi to continue in the tournament," suggesting that factors outside the pitch played a role in determining the qualifiers. The Egyptian coach emphasized that his players gave their all during the tournament, saying, "Many times you give your all, but other things happen that prevent you from achieving your goal." He explained that the coaching staff had hoped to bring joy to the Egyptian fans who had supported the national team since the start of the tournament, but stressed that "there are other things happening outside of football." He continued his criticism, saying, "There is support from all sides for the world champions, whether on the refereeing level or in marketing, and everyone is standing by them." Hossam Hassan affirmed that the Egyptian national team succeeded in imposing its style during the match, praising the players' adherence to the tactical instructions, adding, "I am happy with what the players presented, but external factors decided the outcome." He considered that "the biggest mistake is not getting your due from those in charge who control football and influence match results with other factors outside the field." He said, "We have become part of the world of football, and we are not afraid of any team. The match was more difficult for Argentina than for us, and what we presented confirms that the development of the Egyptian national team will not stop, and we have great goals for the future." Hossam Hassan concluded his remarks by calling on FIFA to apply the principles of justice and respect, saying: "FIFA must apply its motto, which is respect and justice. We were denied a penalty against Belgium, and the refereeing injustice was repeated today against Argentina. I know that the players' ambition was greater, but we will come back stronger."