Egypt coach Hector Cuper is convinced that football is not just about attack, emphasizing the importance of organization on both attacking and defensive fronts following his side's hard-fought 1-0 Nations Cup win over Group D outsiders Uganda on Saturday.
Seven-time African champions Egypt had to wait until the last minute to grab the much-needed winner through substitute Abdallah El-Said, after a lackluster display saw them fail to threaten more often.
"Football is not just about attack," Cuper, often blamed by the media and fans for his over-emphasis on reactive football, said after the game.
"Like the defense, the attack should be organized as well; it's not just about players pushing forward in a random manner.
"Every game has its special plan and strategy."
The ex-Valencia boss came under immense attack after a trademark defensive display saw Egypt fail to beat Mali in the Cup of Nations' opener, eventually playing out a goalless draw.
The Pharaohs were more proactive against minnows Uganda as they needed all three points to boost their quarter-final qualification chances in a group that also comprises Ghana, who already made it to the next stage.
Egypt, currently second of the group with four points, meet group leaders Ghana in their last first-round game on Wednesday. A draw will be enough for them to join the Black Stars in the last eight.