Following their humiliating exit from the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, FA President of hosts Egypt sacked head coach Javier Aguirre and his entire backroom then topped it up with a resignation from his post as leader of the country’s football.
The Pharaohs suffered a shocking elimination from the Afcon round of 16 after conceding a late goal against South Africa, with a lethargic display costing them dear. Thembinkosi Lorch scored the decisive goal five minutes from time after finishing off a neatly-worked breakaway.
Following this, EFA president Hany Abou-Rida has left his position alongside a number of board members, including Hazem Emam and Ahmed Megahed, reports Kingfut.
Despite the resignation, Abou-Rida will continue in his position as the head of the organizing committee of the 2019 Afcon.
Exiting Aguirre takes the blame
Javier Aguirre was appointed as Egypt manager in August 2018 and took charge of the Pharaohs in 12 games across all competitions.
During his time in Egypt, the Pharaohs won nine games, drew one, while losing only twice. The national team scored 25 goals under his charge while conceding seven.
The Mexican trainer’s contract, which saw him earn a monthly salary of $120,000, was supposed to run until the 2022 World Cup, but a disastrous Afcon campaign means he departs early.
“The game was open and saw many chances. The only difference was that South Africa managed to score which helped them qualify,” Aguirre said after the defeat to South Africa.
“We created good chances against South Africa, but the forwards couldn’t convert them because of the opponent’s superior defending. Meanwhile, South Africa scored one goal and qualified.
“I am proud of the group of players that I selected. In the first three games, they were good.
“I will not talk about the players outside of the squad. I am proud of the ones that I called-up.
“There is no decision made about my future. I spoke with the players and on Sunday I will meet with the EFA to discuss my future.
“I am the only one responsible for the defeat. We are all upset about the early elimination and I bear all the consequences because I chose the players and the formation,” he added.
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