Javier Aguirre sacked as president Abou-Rida resigns after Egypt's AFCON exit
Egypt's last-16 exit at the Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday proved costly for Javier Aguirre and his coaching staff. The Mexican coach was promptly sacked from the post.
Egypt sacked head coach Javier Aguirre following their shock elimination in the round of 16 at the Africa Cup of Nations. Aguirre's Egypt were left stunned on Saturday as the 2019 AFCON hosts lost 1-0 to South Africa in Cairo, where the Pharaohs failed to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 2004. Afterwards, Egyptian Football Association (EFA) president Hany Abou-Rida announced his resignation and confirmed the departure of the entire technical and administrative staff.
Aguirre holds hand up for Egypt AFCON exit
Despite his resignation, Abou-Rida – who also called for members of the board to step down – said he will continue in his position as head of the organising committee of the 2019 AFCON. Egypt appointed Mexican boss Aguirre following their group-stage exit at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Former Japan and Mexico coach Aguirre signed a four-year deal to replace Héctor Cúper last year. "Of course I am responsible," the 60-year-old reporters post-match on Saturday. "We are all upset about the early elimination and I bear all the consequences because I chose the players and the formation."