Hossam Hassan sacked as Egypt head coach over ex-wife scandal
The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) has dismissed national team head coach Hossam Hassan, citing concerns that controversies surrounding his private life damaged the squad's image and stability. The move came days after Egypt's Supreme Council for Media Regulation barred him from media appearances over a dispute with his ex-wife, Dina Mostafa (known publicly as "Dan Adam"). Hassan's lawyers filed complaints alleging forgery and bigamy, which her representatives denied, while former Egypt forward Mido warned the situation had spiralled out of control.
Ceramica Cleopatra coach Ali Maher, 52, has been appointed to succeed Hassan ahead of Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Malawi on November 13 and 17. Hassan departs despite leading Egypt to their best-ever World Cup performance—a round-of-16 finish at the 2026 tournament, where he also received a three-match FIFA ban for criticising the referee after losing to Argentina. He previously secured fourth place at the Africa Cup of Nations following his appointment in March 2024.
Internal friction had grown in September after a 0-0 draw against Angola, during which Hassan substituted Mohamed Salah in the 60th minute before Salah left camp, missing a 5-0 win over South Sudan. Hassan concludes his 38-game tenure with 21 wins, 10 draws, and seven losses.
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