Egypt has enjoyed a remarkable history in the Africa Cup of Nations. The competition began in 1957 with only three participating nations before expanding into a major African football tournament with qualification rounds held every two years.
The tournament eventually featured sixteen teams divided into four groups, with the leading two from each group advancing to the knockout rounds. Egypt won the competition seven times, while clubs such as Al Ahly and Zamalek established strong continental records. Here are three of Egypt's most celebrated footballers, ranked from third to first.
3. Ahmed Hassan
Ahmed Hassan represented Egypt 179 times and appeared in eight consecutive Africa Cup of Nations tournaments between 1996 and 2010. He was part of four championship-winning squads in 1998, 2006, 2008 and 2010. His performances also earned him places in the tournament's best team and individual player honors.
2. Mahmoud El-Khatib
Mahmoud El-Khatib, nicknamed Bibo, spent sixteen years with Al Ahly. During his career, he helped secure ten Egyptian league championships, three African Cup Winners' Cups and two African Champions League titles, scoring more than 100 goals. Internationally, he represented Egypt at the 1984 Olympics and several Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, including the victorious 1986 campaign.
In 1983, Mahmoud El-Khatib received the African Footballer of the Year award.
1. Hossam Hassan
Hossam Hassan played for Al Ahly, Zamalek and several other clubs. His achievements included thirteen Egyptian league titles, four African Cup Winners' Cups and two CAF Champions League titles. He participated in seven Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, winning three championships in 1986, 1998 and 2006. He also represented Egypt at the 1990 FIFA World Cup in Italy.