U-17 World Cup: Egypt coach Ahmed El Kass tips Venezuela to go far

Despite securing a 1-1 draw against Venezuela, Egypt U-17 national team coach Ahmed El Kass has conceded that their opponents at the 2025 FIFA World Cup were very strong and have what it takes to go far in Qatar.

The North Africans, who played the last 30 minutes with 10-men, held on to claim a point against Venezuela. The South Americans broke through when captain Marcos Maitan escaped his marker to head home a corner from the back post.

Egypt responded with a header of their own shortly after the break, with Hamza Abdelkarim nodding in a pinpoint Mohanad El Shamy centre.

The Pharaohs’ momentum was halted on the hour-mark, though, with Mohamed Hamad seeing red for a high boot on Marco Libra. Ahmed El Kass’ side defender resolutely from there to earn a valuable point.

Egypt played against a very good opponent

“It was a very tough match. We played against a very good opponent in Venezuela, who beat England on the first day. And it was especially tough because we had to play more than 30 minutes with ten players,” said El Kass as quoted by FIFA.com.

“I must thank the fans, as we have a lot of supporters here in Doha. All the players did very well against an opponent who I think will go far in this tournament.”

Venezuela goalscorer Maitan praised the Young Pharaohs for defending very well. He told the same portal: “It’s very disappointing because we played well, scored the first goal, and after the substitutions we conceded the goal. It didn’t work how we wanted to work.

“Obviously, it’s very important for me to play in a World Cup, even an U17 World Cup, and show what my qualities are. I scored the goal, that’s very good for me personally, but I’m not happy with the result. Next match, if we can win the match, I’ll be more happy.”

The draw left Egypt top of Group E with four points, while Venezuela moved second with the same number of points. Egypt will next face England, who have three points, at Aspire Zone – Pitch 7 on Monday.

⚽ Follow Pan-Africa Football across platforms for real-time news and stories.