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It’s good to see Egyptians smiling once again, says Cuper

By Editor
03 February 2017   |   3:10 am
Egypt coach, Hector Cuper, was understandably delighted and thrilled with his side’s performance after they saw off a tough Burkina Faso in post match penalties to qualify for the 2017 Afcon final.

The Pharaohs of Egypt celebrate victory<br />

• ‘Burkina Faso is a team for the future’

Egypt coach, Hector Cuper, was understandably delighted and thrilled with his side’s performance after they saw off a tough Burkina Faso in post match penalties to qualify for the 2017 Afcon final.

The Pharaohs backpedalled most of the game as they were pushed hard by the marauding Burkina Faso strikers led by towering Aristide Bance who cancelled out Mohamed Salah’s goal.

The result sets up a mouth watering final clash between Egypt and the winner between Ghana and Cameroun.Speaking after the win, Cuper was a relieved man and congratulated his counterpart Paulo Duarte.

“It was one of our toughest matches as Burkina Faso pushed us to the wall. They were good especially in the second half, but they lost numerous chances that would have finished the game for us.

“I am happy with my players because despite the pressure, they remained composed. Despite the fatigue in the second half they did not wilt. I am sincerely glad we made it to the final though I have not been always lucky with finals. It’s good to see Egyptians smiling once again,” Cuper said.

Asked about his first choice keeper, El Sharawy, who was injured in the first game and selected ahead of El Hadary, who saved two penalties, Cuper intimated the team was his own choice.

“The team choice is my full responsibility. I had been with the players and I know what I saw therefore some strategies work out while some do not.“I Will try to give the players time for rehabilitation and hopefully they will be ready for next game on Sunday as they are exhausted and need to rest well.” Cuper added.

He revealed, “the toughest part of the match was the whole 90 minutes. We saw how both teams missed scoring chances.“I congratulate Burkina Faso for their performance, they are a team for the future and their coach Duarte did an awesome job. I thank God for this tough victory.”
Culled from supersport.com

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