SOCCER: Cup of Nations every two years better for European leagues, says Egypt coach

Egypt coach Hossam Hassan said on Monday that holding the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) every two years would benefit European leagues, while insisting his team is ready to face any opponent in the tournament's round of 16 in Morocco.

Egypt secured a 0-0 draw against Angola in Agadir, keeping their unbeaten run intact and clinching the top spot in Group B with seven points. They finished ahead of South Africa, who took second place with six points following a 3-2 victory over Zimbabwe.

"In my view, it is better that the Africa Cup of Nations be held every two years instead of four," Hassan said in remarks shared on the Egyptian Football Association’s official Facebook page. "This would serve the interests of European leagues."

Last week, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced that the tournament will be held every four years going forward, ending a biennial tradition that began in 1957. The decision drew criticism from several coaches.

By topping their group, Egypt will remain in Agadir to play their round of 16 match next Monday.

"We are ready to face any team in the round of 16," Hassan said. "The next stage will be tough, and the competition is strong. We will work on building on our positives and correcting the negatives in the next match."

Hassan also praised his squad for giving opportunities to new players. "I am satisfied with the performance of those who played for the first time in the Africa Cup of Nations. The aim of the Angola match was to test more players," he added.

Egypt made 11 changes from the lineup that defeated South Africa 1-0 on Friday, resting stars such as Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush.

"Resting several players was necessary due to the short time between the South Africa and Angola matches," said Hassan, who won the Africa Cup of Nations three times as a player in 1986, 1998, and 2006.

-Reporting by Ahmed Abd Ellatif in Cairo; Editing by Christian Radnedge/Reuters