Already through to the finals, Egypt have secured four wins from four matches, scoring 10 goals while keeping a clean sheet in every game.

Under the guidance of coach Hossam Hassan, the Pharaohs aim to close the qualifiers on a high note and display consistent dominance.

The Pharaohs kicked off their campaign with a decisive 3-0 victory over Cape Verde in September, with goals from Rami Rabia, Omar Marmoush, and Ibrahim Adel.

However, Egypt will be without key players for Friday's clash, including Rabia, Nice’s defender Mohamed Abdel Moneim, and Yasser Ibrahim due to injuries. Moreover, suspended duo Mahmoud ‘Trezeguet’ Hassan and Marwan Attia will be absent.

Moreover, Liverpool star Mohamed Salah has also opted out of this month’s qualifiers at his own request, a decision Hassan has respected.

Hassan has introduced new faces to bolster his squad, including Smouha defender Mahmoud Ahmed Rabia, Ceramica Cleopatra winger Mahmoud Abdel Hafiz Zalaka, and Ahly winger Taher Mohamed Taher.

At a press conference, Hassan, Egypt’s all-time leading scorer, expressed confidence in his team, inspired by recent successes from regional rivals, like Morocco. "Our main goal is to qualify for the World Cup, and if we make it, we’re committed to showcasing strong performances on the global stage," he said.

On the other hand, Cape Verde will be fighting to keep their AFCON hopes alive.

A 1-0 aggregate defeat to Botswana last month left the Blue Sharks in third place in the group with three losses from four matches.

Coach Bubista’s side must win their final two games, including this clash against Egypt, to keep their 2025 AFCON qualification hopes alive.

In the group’s other match, Botswana will play Mauritania on Friday. The top two teams from each group will advance to the AFCON finals in Morocco.

(For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at @AO_Sports and on Facebook at AhramOnlineSports.)