‘We always play to win,’ says Egypt U-23 coach ahead of Guinea clash

Ahmed Abd El Rasoul , Monday 3 Jul 2023

Despite anticipating a "difficult and strong" game against Guinea in the U-23 Africa Cup of Nations semifinal on Tuesday, Egypt U-23 national football team coach Roger Micale said that his side always plays to win.

Rogerio Micale
Egypt U-23 national football team s new coach Rogerio Micale. EFA

 

The young Pharaohs secured a place in the continental tournament semis as Group B leaders, with a 1-0 win over Mali, 0-0 draw with Niger, and a final 2-0 victory against Gabon.

"We hope to continue our success against Guinea as the game’s result is related to our dream of reaching the Olympics and also reaching the African final," Micale said in the pre-match press conference on Monday.

"The Guinea game will be difficult. We will face a good and strong side. The game will be tough, but we always play to win," the coach added.

Egypt is looking to defend their title, won in 2019, and qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games.

The top three teams in the tournament will qualify automatically, while the fourth-placed team will play a playoff game against an Asian team.

Despite the short preparation time after defeating Gabon on Saturday, Micale stressed that his team is ready for Tuesday's game.

He added that they took a break on Sunday for rehabilitation and began preparations on Monday, but he has full confidence in his players and their abilities.

Micale also mentioned that the positive energy coming from Egypt is boosting their morale, and they are working to turn fans' dreams into positive pressure.

He concluded that they play collective football and are entirely focused on the semifinal, respecting their opponents but aiming for a win.

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