"The game against Malawi will be a difficult mission for the team, but we will play to win and gain the three points," Vitoria told the pre-game press conference on Monday.

The Pharaohs aim to secure their position at the top of Group D in the 2023 AFCON qualifiers as they take on Malawi at Bingu National Stadium on Tuesday.

Egypt, seven-time African champions, currently lead Group D with six points, tied with Guinea in second place. Malawi and Ethiopia occupy the third and fourth positions, respectively, each with three points.

"Tuesday’s game will be a big challenge, as every game has its circumstances, despite always searching for the victory," the Portuguese coach added.

Liverpool's winger Mohamed Salah scored his 48th goal for Egypt on Friday as the Pharaohs reclaimed the top spot in Group D after beating Malawi 2-0.

"We have Mohamed Salah, who is a brilliant player, alongside all the national team squad, so I am happy with the current formation of the players," Vitoria said.

Egypt began their 2023 AFCON qualifying campaign with a victory over Guinea in June 2022, followed by a loss to Ethiopia away from home, and then triumphed over Malawi in the third round of qualifiers on Friday.

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