Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has dropped a bombshell in the press conference criticising CAF's decision regarding AFCON.
The Pharaohs made it through to the knockout stages of the 2025 AFCON after topping Group B of the competition.
Wins over Zimbabwe and South Africa, followed by a goalless draw with Angola, earned Egypt seven points after three games.
READ: Egypt Held by Angola with Salah Rested In Goalless Stalemate
Their inspiring performances, led by Mohamed Salah, could finally end their long trophy drought, with their last AFCON triumph coming in 2010.
In addition, the new four-year tournament cycle could mean that Salah takes part in his final AFCON.
The announcement made by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) stirred controversy ahead of the tournament.
Hossam Hassan addressed the issue during the press conference that followed Egypt’s draw with Angola on Monday. When reporters raised the topic, the 59-year-old coach did not hold back. Instead, he made his displeasure clear and launched a strong criticism of FIFA, directly blaming the governing body for what he sees as a harmful decision.
Hassan openly voiced his frustration with the move to stage the Africa Cup of Nations every four years, arguing that the change does not serve the continent well.
Speaking with visible irritation, he questioned the motives behind the decision and suggested that those in charge failed to properly consider the impact on African football.
"In fact, this is tailored to fit the European clubs' schedule. African nations should have a strong stance against this.
"The entire world is celebrating Christmas right now, and everyone is at home with their loved ones, except for the players at AFCON who have to play during the holidays.
"You will never see this happening in Europe, where an international tournament is held at this time of the year.
"FIFA likes to talk about 'respect'. But respect should apply to everyone around the world, including African teams and players.
"CAF is also complicit in this because it is their duty to talk to clubs and football federations to decide what's best for the continent.
"Once again, I'm really frustrated by this decision. But they did this primarily to ensure that African players don't leave their European clubs during the season.
"That's why AFCON will be held every four years now instead of two. I have to ask, can CAF influence how often the Euros are played? Of course not," he added.
Egypt will face a third-placed team from Group A, C, or D in the round of 16 on Monday. Furthermore, organizers will reveal the draw after the group stages conclude.
Players like Salah, Omar Marmoush, and Mahmoud Trezeguethave all been rested against Angola. The aforementioned names are all expected to be back in the starting lineup next week.
