The disappointment of failing to reach the World Cup still haunts Egypt as they approach the Nations Cup with the aim of erasing the bitter memories of falling at the last hurdle against Algeria. A star-studded Egypt side were close to booking a place at the World Cup for the first time since 1990 but suffered a 1-0 defeat to fierce rivals Algeria in a playoff in Sudan. The huge disappointment of the Pharaohs' inability to end their World Cup jinx overshadowed their preparations for January's CAN finals, with many fans undermining the importance of Africa's premier tournament. Egypt coach Hassan Shehata, whose credentials were once again called into question despite guiding the team to two successive CAN triumphs, believes there is room for redemption. "We will do our best to atone for missing out on a place at the World Cup," Shehata, the country's longest-serving coach having been appointed in 2004, said. "Winning the Nations Cup for a third consecutive time would be the ideal gift and compensation for our fans." The Egyptian FA kept faith in Shehata, who revealed that he considered resigning from his post following the World Cup disappointment, by extending his contract until 2012. However, the 60-year-old boss is no longer immune to criticism. Controversial Choices Shehata's choices of players for the Nations Cup were considered somewhat controversial, with the absence of Zamalek's on-loan striker Mido and Ismaili skipper Mohamed Hommos drawing widespread criticism.
Mido was surprisingly omitted Central midfielder Hommos was a member of an Egyptian side who put in superb displays against Brazil and Italy in the Confederations in June. He headed the winner in the team's historic 1-0 victory over world champions Italy. Mido's absence was a bigger surprise, given the shortage of experienced strikers at Shehata's disposal. Zamalek striker Amr Zaki was ruled out of the tournament due to a hamstring injury, leaving Emad Meteb and Mohamed Zidan as the only reliable front-men in Egypt's squad. "No need for criticism now," Egypt captain Ahmed Hassan said in a message to fans following the announcement of the squad. "We need to stick together and support our coach and our team in the coming period." Egypt, who eye a record-extending seventh Nations Cup title, were drawn in Group C along with Nigeria, Mozambique and Benin. They open their campaign against two-time winners Nigeria on January 12 before facing Mozambique four days later. They conclude their group-stage campaign against minnows Benin on January 20.
