With just 16 days remaining until the curtain rises on the 27th Men’s Senior Handball Africa Cup of Nations in Rwanda, anticipation continues to build across the continent. Scheduled for late January 2026, the championship will feature Africa’s top 16 national teams, all competing for continental supremacy and coveted qualification places for the 2027 IHF Men’s World Handball Championship.
Among the leading contenders, the Egypt Handball National Team — famously known as The Pharaohs — commands particular attention. A consistent force in both African and global handball, Egypt arrives as the reigning continental champion and one of the tournament favourites.
Fresh from a dominant triumph at the 2024 African Men’s Championship, which secured their ninth continental title, Egypt enters Rwanda with confidence, pedigree, and ambition.Under
Under the guidance of head coach Xavier Pascual Fuertes, the Pharaohs boast a well-balanced squad combining seasoned veterans with players hardened by top-level European competition. This blend of experience, tactical discipline, and international exposure positions Egypt not only to defend their African crown but also to make a strong statement on the world stage.
Key Player Spotlight
Ali Zein – علي زين — Left Back (Veteran Leader)
Few players embody Egyptian handball excellence quite like Ali Zein. A symbol of consistency, leadership, and elite performance, Zein remains one of the most influential figures in African handball history.
International pedigree: With over 300 senior international appearances and more than 500 goals for Egypt, Zein’s contribution to the national team is both historic and enduring.
European success: His club career includes winning the 2021–22 EHF Champions League with FC Barcelona, a milestone he has described as the pinnacle of his professional journey.
Continental dominance: A four-time African champion (2016, 2020, 2022, 2024) and MVP of the 2018 African Championship, Zein has consistently delivered at the highest level.
Leadership and composure: Now plying his trade with ONE Veszprém HC, alongside fellow Egyptian internationals, Zein’s attacking threat, defensive intelligence, and calm under pressure will be pivotal in Egypt’s title defence.
Both on and off the court, Zein’s influence is invaluable — providing tactical stability and inspirational leadership as Egypt prepares for another demanding continental campaign.
What to Expect in Rwanda
Armed with depth, experience, and a winning mentality, Egypt enters the 27th Men’s Senior Handball Africa Cup of Nations determined to retain their crown and reaffirm their status as Africa’s handball benchmark. All eyes will be on the Pharaohs as they seek to translate continental dominance into continued global relevance.
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