January 29, (THEWILL) – The Egyptian national football team is facing an unclear future following their shock Round of 16 exit from the Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday. After a 1-1 draw and penalty shootout loss to the Democratic Republic of Congo, manager Rui Vitoria has come under strong criticism for a series of poor performances in the tournament.
Despite heading into AFCON 2024 on a strong 12-1-1 run under Vitoria, Egypt struggled in group-stage play, managing three straight 2-2 draws to advance narrowly. With injuries to key players Mohamed Salah and Mohamed El Shennawy, the Pharaohs continued to look lifeless in attack and shaky defensively in their knockout round match. After 120 goalless minutes, Egypt fell 8-7 in penalties to Congo.
In the aftermath, Vitoria tried to downplay the disappointing result, stating: “There are happy and sad moments in football” and that they “did their best”. However, Egyptian football legends like former defender Wael Gomaa have laid the blame firmly on the manager, stating he “brought out the worst in the players” during AFCON.
The Round of 16 exit marks the first time in the last five Africa Cup of Nations that Egypt still needs to make at least the semi-final stage. With fan expectations high for one of African football’s traditional powers, there is certain to be fallout from the poor showing. Vitoria’s short-term future in charge looks uncertain at best.
Egypt came into AFCON 2024 hoping to add to their record seven continental titles. Instead, after enduring a staggering group display, the Pharaohs are headed home embarrassingly early. Changes could be coming as the Egypt FA looks to regain its status as the dominant African national.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
