Egypt is only two victories away from ending their 14-year-long quest for a major football championship.
The Pharaohs have made history at Paris 2024 by reaching the semi-finals for the first time ever, thanks to a thrilling penalty shootout victory over Paraguay on Friday, August 2. This achievement marks a significant milestone, as they had previously been knocked out in the quarterfinals on four occasions, finally overcoming the longstanding curse that had plagued them for decades.
As the gold medal match approaches, this team's desire for another major title intensifies. Their last podium finish was in 2010, when they won the Africa Cup of Nations. Egypt appears to have found the perfect mix of youth and experience in their squad for Paris 2024. With three 'over-age' positions available for competing nations, choosing the right players for the appropriate roles is crucial.
Head coach Rogerio Micale only utilized two of those selections: Mohamed Elneny and Ahmed Sayed Zizo. The latter has already demonstrated his importance in the offense by assisting Egypt's pivotal equalizer in their quarterfinal against Paraguay, a match they ultimately won.
However, it is Elneny's calm presence in midfield that has truly stood out for the North African team. The 32-year-old captain exemplifies leadership, which is being fully embraced by this young squad. His dedication to their gold-medal aspirations was clearly demonstrated by his determination to keep playing against Paraguay, even after sustaining an injury in the first half.
If this historic run is to keep going, the veteran leaders will undoubtedly play a crucial role alongside the young hopefuls. Egypt's coach, Micale, who knows what it takes to win Olympic gold, is well-versed in success. Eight years ago, he orchestrated Brazil's triumph on their home turf at the Rio 2016 Games. Now, he stands just two victories away from achieving the same feat with Egypt.
"We are deeply appreciative of coach Micale," said midfielder Ahmed Atef. "Since the very beginning, we have stood behind him, and he has also supported us on a personal level, instilling us with confidence," he added.
"His exceptional performance on the field is evident to all. We hold him in the highest regard and are determined to win a medal for our country and for him personally."
Micale has fostered genuine unity among his team, evident in their performance on the pitch, where players give their all. His squad has embraced this strategy wholeheartedly, and with good reason. Prior to 2016, Brazil had never clinched Olympic gold in 20 previous attempts.
If anyone knows how to break a trophy drought, it's Micale.