Javier Aguirre

Egypt has sacked its national football coach, Javier Aguirre following the Pharaohs’ last-16 shock exit at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Saturday night. 

Aguirre’s boys were left stunned as they  lost 1-0 to South Africa in Cairo, thereby failing 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.

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 organizing committee of the 2019 AFCON.

Egypt appointed Aguirre who has also coached his native Mexico and Japan on a four-year deal to replace Hector Cuper last year.

Speaking after the thrilling encounter, Aguirre said: “I am the one responsible (for Egypt’s exit). I’m responsible for all the selections and the end results, but I’m still proud of this group of players.

“The next step will be decided after I meet with the Egyptian FA board tomorrow. The game was open and witnessed scoring chances. The only difference was that South Africa scored a goal that helped them to qualify.”