••
FIFA suspends Egypt coach Hossam Hassan for three matches
•2 min read•2 sources
FIFA has imposed a three-match suspension on Egypt's head coach, Hossam Hassan, following disciplinary incidents during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The sanctions, which also affect team manager Ibrahim Hassan and forward Mostafa Zico, follow Egypt’s exit from the tournament after a narrow 3-2 defeat to Argentina in the round of 16. The ruling comes after intense criticism of the officiating was directed at match officials by the Egyptian contingent.
Alongside the 60-year-old head coach, national team director Ibrahim Hassan—Hossam's brother—has also been handed a three-match ban for his role in the post-match events. The most severe penalty was reserved for forward Mostafa Zico, who received a five-match suspension. These disciplinary actions were triggered by what FIFA described as criticisms and insults directed at the referee in the aftermath of the North African side's elimination from the competition.
The frustration within the Egyptian camp stemmed from officiating during the match against Argentina, which Hossam Hassan publicly blamed for his team's exit. While the head coach focused his critiques on specific refereeing errors, Mostafa Zico was reportedly sanctioned for insulting the referee during a post-match interview. In response to the backlash, FIFA's referee chief has defended the performance of the officiating team during the knockout fixture.
The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) has expressed its dissatisfaction with the decision and confirmed plans to appeal the ruling. The timing of the suspensions presents a significant hurdle for the Pharaohs, as both Hossam and Ibrahim Hassan are set to miss upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches scheduled for November. Additionally, Zico's five-match ban is expected to keep him sidelined from international duty until June.
