Hossam Hassan Faces Injury Nightmare as Key Midfielder Exits Camp

Egypt national team director Ibrahim Hassan has confirmed that midfielder Hamdy Fathy will miss the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Angola and South Sudan after suffering an injury.

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A growing injury list for Hossam Hassan

The Al Wakrah midfielder who also provides key cover at centre back, has been ruled out of the national team camp and will miss both competitive qualifying fixtures alongside a scheduled friendly against South Africa on 4 October.

Fathy's absence represents a notable setback for head coach Hossam Hassan, who relies heavily on the former Al Ahly player as a tactical anchor.

His withdrawal further compounds Egypt's squad issues ahead of the international window. The national side is already coping without Mohamed El Shenawy, Al Ahly defender Yasser Ibrahim and Al-Riyadh winger Trezeguet, leaving the technical staff to adjust key areas across the spine of the team.

Tactical importance in the Pharaohs' midfield

Fathy has earned 67 international caps and scored three goals for Egypt, establishing himself as a vital starter during their run to the Round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup.

His physical presence, aerial strength and tactical discipline allow Egypt to transition smoothly between a three man defence and a double pivot in midfield. Replacing his defensive work rate and positional versatility will require significant adjustments in the middle of the park.

Egypt will begin their qualifying campaign for the Africa Cup of Nations by hosting Angola on 25 September, before travelling to face South Sudan four days later.

The camp concludes with a friendly encounter against South Africa in Cairo. With four established starters sidelined, Hossam Hassan will need to rely on his squad depth to secure maximum points and avoid an early slip in Group play.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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