Back in 1998, Hossam Hassan scored a brace against hosts Burkina Faso in the semi-finals of the 1998 CAF Africa Cup of Nations. That represented one of his finest footballing moments, and it was made even more special by the fact his Egypt side went on to win the title.
Hassan will return to Burkina Faso in September, this time as Egypt coach, to lead the nation in a clash of enormous importance, and one that could earn the Pharaohs qualification to FIFA World Cup 26™. Before that, though, they will face a stern test against Ethiopia at home.
Hassan’s side currently top Group A in the CAF qualifiers and wins in both games would guarantee their spot at the global finals. They could also qualify without maximum points if other results go their way.
Egypt, however, will be intent on doing the job themselves and, as FIFA explores, history bodes well for them as they prepare for the battles ahead.
Egypt v Ethiopia: Overwhelming dominance
Egypt and Ethiopia share a long history, having faced off 17 times. The Pharaohs boast 12 victories, with Ethiopia winning three times and the sides playing out two draws.
Their 18th meeting will be staged at Cairo International Stadium on 5 September, and Egypt will be buoyed by the fact their record against Ethiopia in the capital is entirely one-sided. Not only have the Egyptians won all six of their matches in Cairo, they have done so by a cumulative score of 26-3.
Burkina Faso v Egypt: Never beaten
Next up for Egypt is a clash with Burkina Faso, who are currently second in Group A and five points behind Hassan’s table-topping side. The teams will face off in Ouagadougou on 9 September and, again, the head-to-head record is in favour of the Pharaohs. Overall, in eight matches against Burkina Faso, Egypt have recorded five victories and three draws.
This encounter also carries special significance, of course, evoking memories of 1998 and Hassan’s brilliance against Burkina Faso in that Africa Cup of Nations semi-final. Now, as the Pharaohs aspire to return to the World Cup after missing out on Qatar 2022, Egyptians are hopeful that Hassan can inspire another famous moment in the nation’s football history.
