U-20 AFCON: Coach Gaber Reveals Reasons Egypt Lost To Nigeria

Egypt's Under-20 head coach Mahmoud Gaber has shed light on why his side fell to a 1-0 defeat against the Flying Eagles of Nigeria on Wednesday.

Gaber attributed his side's defeat at the ongoing 2023 U-20 AFCON to loss of concentration, wasted opportunities in front of goal and injuries which sidelined key players.

"The players were very tense after the goal and felt under pressure, and this greatly affected them.

“We missed many opportunities, and if we were focused, we would have decided the match in our favour.

"The injury affected us greatly in the second half. 

"We will not blame the matter on injuries, but we lost many distinguished players before the tournament, " he said.

Opening up further on his side's chances of qualifying from their group, Gaber expressed that he is optimistic about sealing a victory in the final group fixture against Senegal who are atop of Group A table with six points from two games. 

“But we are holding on to our hopes and we will fight to complete the campaign. 

"Senegal is a strong team, but we will fight for the victory and to qualify," he added.

The Young Pharaohs of Egypt will lock horns with the Cubs of Senegal on Saturday, February 25 at the Cairo International Stadium, Egypt.