Egypt Football Association (EFA) vice president Khaled El-Darandaly has revealed that the Egyptian players are taking full responsibility following their 2-2 draw against Mozambique in their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) opener on Sunday.

Despite taking an early lead courtesy of Mostafa Mohamed the Pharaohs were left stunned when the Mambas scores two quick fire goals to take the lead in the second half and it needed a late penalty courtesy of Mohamed Salah for them to salvage a draw.

“There was negligence on the part of the players, and they did not deliver the expected performance, which they had shown in previous matches,” said El-Darandaly, adding: “The biggest mistake is not acknowledging the fundamental error, and therefore it is necessary to admit the shortcomings of the players in the Mozambique game.

“There is a deep sadness among the players after the draw, and they feel the negligence. They have a strong desire to redeem themselves in the upcoming matches.

“Vitoria is in a state of great sadness, and there will be a meeting with the players, which was not scheduled before, to talk to them after the draw with Mozambique.”