Egypt’s national football team has reportedly turned down an invitation to play a friendly match against Zambia in November, citing concerns over public backlash linked to the Zambian coach, Avram Grant.
According to Egyptian media reports, the Pharaohs’ coaching staff rejected the proposal to avoid sparking controversy among fans and sports commentators. Avram Grant, the former Chelsea and Ghana coach, has long been a polarizing figure in African football, and officials feared that facing his team could reignite heated debate.
Sports analysts note that the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) has been under pressure to maintain harmony between the national team and its passionate fan base. Any association with Grant, who has previously courted criticism in several countries, risked distracting from Egypt’s preparations for upcoming continental and international fixtures.
The rejection underscores how sensitive football politics can be in the region, where decisions on friendlies are weighed not only on sporting grounds but also on national sentiment.
The EFA has not issued an official statement, but sources say Egypt is considering alternative opponents for the November international window.
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