Hossam Hassan, the technical director of the Egypt national team, revealed his reaction towards Mohamed Hani's own goals, the reasons for including Hamza Abdel Karim, and relying primarily on Mustafa Shobier.
Hani scored two own goals in the 2026 World Cup against both Belgium and Australia.
Mohamed Hani's own goals
Hossam Hassan said in statements via "ON" channel: "Mohamed Hani was a man on the field, I did not speak to him in front of the players after he scored two goals in his own net."
He continued: "After the match, I review the negatives that occurred, I did not direct any blame to him in front of the players, I do not want him to feel broken in front of his teammates."
He stressed: "I am convinced of Mohamed Hani, and he is one of the best players."
Relying on Mustafa Shobier
Regarding the reasons for relying on Mustafa Shobier: "I had confidence in him, the matter was not out of a vacuum, he is a smart and cultured player, he was considered the second or third goalkeeper at Al Ahly."
He added: "I did not include Mustafa Shobier in the Egypt national team as a courtesy, I was acting in a way that pleases God, and I was looking towards the 2026 World Cup and the future."
He continued: "In the Super Cup match against Zamalek, I felt that he possessed character, and I was insistent on his inclusion in the Egypt national team squad."
He went on: "When I decided to rely on Mustafa Shobier in the Africa Cup of Nations, I felt that this was his time, I did not feel worried."
Reasons for including Hamza Abdel Karim
Regarding Hamza Abdel Karim: "I saw him in the Youth World Cup with the Egypt national team, he performed well, and when he joined Barcelona, he was playing at a good level, and he is distinguished physically and mentally."
