Coach Hassan Shehata said that he didn’t call up Egypt captain Hossam Hassan to keep him on the bench and vowed to grant the 39-year-old striker a chance in the upcoming matches.

"I didn’t field Hassan in the second period (against Libya) to avoid an expected accusation from the press that I am just honoring him," Shehata told reporters after Friday's game.

Shehata praised Hassan and said he will be taking part "because he trains very well that he may secure a starting place."

The former Ahli and Zamalek striker remained on the bench as Egypt crushed Libya 3-0 in the opener of the African Cup of Nations courtesy to goals from Ahmed Hossam "Mido", Mohamed Abou-Treaka and Ahmed Hassan.

The Egypt coach said he was pleased with the victory because any other result would have put Egypt in a tight spot.

Egypt will play their second match in Group B against Morocco on Tuesday while Libya will play Ivory Coast.