Egypt’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign has begun with victory on the pitch but trouble off it, as the Egypt AFCON media fine has become an unexpected talking point in Morocco.
Despite a dramatic 2–1 comeback win over Zimbabwe in their opening group game, the Pharaohs have been fined and formally warned by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for failing to meet mandatory media obligations after the match.
The Egypt AFCON media fine highlights an issue CAF has repeatedly stressed in recent years: that professionalism away from the ball is just as important as results on it.
For a nation with Egypt’s status, history and expectations, the incident has slightly dulled what should have been a perfect start to the tournament.
A Winning Start Marred by Off-Field Issues
On paper, Egypt’s opener went according to plan. Prince Dube stunned the Pharaohs by giving Zimbabwe an early lead inside 20 minutes, exposing defensive nerves that have occasionally haunted Egypt in recent tournaments.
However, Omar Marmoush restored parity with a composed finish, before Mohamed Salah once again delivered when it mattered most, scoring a stoppage-time winner to seal all three points.
It was a result that underlined Egypt’s resilience and experience.
Yet, within hours of the final whistle, the focus shifted from Salah’s decisive goal to the Egypt AFCON media fine, following the team’s failure to fulfil post-match media duties.
What Led to the Egypt AFCON Media Fine?
According to reports from African journalist Micky Jnr and confirmed by Africa Top Sports, no Egyptian player or member of the coaching staff stopped to speak to the media after the Zimbabwe match.
Footage later emerged showing captain Mohamed Salah walking swiftly through the mixed zone without engaging with reporters.
CAF regulations clearly state that at least one player and a member of the coaching staff must be made available for media interviews after matches.
Egypt’s complete absence from these duties was therefore deemed a clear breach.
As a result, CAF imposed a fine of $5,000 and issued a formal warning, stating that harsher sanctions could follow if similar behaviour is repeated.
The Egypt AFCON media fine is not just a financial penalty but a signal that CAF intends to strictly enforce its rules.
Why Media Duties Matter to CAF
CAF has consistently emphasised that media access is vital to the growth of African football.
Interviews help promote transparency, improve fan engagement, and attract sponsors and broadcasters.
In short, they are seen as essential to the image and commercial future of the competition.
From CAF’s perspective, the Egypt AFCON media fine serves as a reminder that even the tournament’s biggest nations are not above the rules.
Egypt, after all, are seven-time AFCON champions and one of the competition’s main draws.
Egypt’s Response on the Pitch
While the fine raised eyebrows, Egypt have responded in the best possible way where it matters most: on the field.
In their second group match against South Africa, the Pharaohs showed maturity and control in a tense encounter.
Once again, Mohamed Salah was decisive, converting a penalty to secure a second straight victory.
The match was not without drama, as Mohamed Hany was sent off just before half-time, forcing Egypt to defend with 10 men for much of the second half.
Nevertheless, they held firm to claim a 1–0 win and book their place in the last 16.
These performances suggest that the Egypt AFCON media fine has not distracted the squad, who remain focused on their ultimate goal.
Expectations Remain High for the Pharaohs
Two wins from two matches is exactly what was expected from Egypt before the tournament began.
Statistical models and supercomputer predictions had already tipped them to comfortably reach the knockout stages, and they have lived up to that billing so far.
With qualification secured, Egypt now turn their attention to their final Group B fixture against Angola on Monday 29 December.
Victory there would send a strong message to their rivals and further reinforce their status as title contenders.
A Lesson for the Remainder of the Tournament
The Egypt AFCON media fine should serve as a cautionary tale.
CAF’s warning makes it clear that repeat offences could lead to heavier penalties, potentially including larger fines or disciplinary action that might affect the team’s tournament run.
For Egypt, the solution is simple: comply with the regulations, avoid unnecessary distractions, and let their football do the talking.
With Mohamed Salah leading the line and a squad rich in tournament experience, the Pharaohs remain one of the strongest teams in the competition.
If they can match their professionalism off the pitch with their quality on it, Egypt’s AFCON campaign may still end with the silverware they crave — and not headlines about fines and warnings.
