Egypt's forward #10 Mohamed Salah scores the team's second goal during the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) group B football match between Egypt and Zimbabwe at Adrar Stadium in Agadir. AFP
Egypt will face a stern test on Friday when they take on South Africa in a Group B match of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations, with a win set to secure the Pharaohs a place in the round of 16.
The Pharaohs opened their group campaign with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe on Monday, thanks to a stoppage-time winner from Liverpool star Mohamed Salah.
Despite the result, Egypt’s performance was unconvincing, with defensive frailties and only two goals from numerous scoring opportunities.
Earlier on Monday, South Africa defeated Angola by the same score, leaving both sides tied atop Group B with three points each.
Friday’s clash will therefore be decisive for the group standings, with the winner guaranteed progression to the knockout stages.
A draw would still keep both teams in contention.
Under the tournament rules, the top two teams from each of the six groups, along with the four best third-placed teams, advance to the round of 16.
Egypt coach Hossam Hassan acknowledged the challenge his team faces against South Africa while praising the quality of the opposition.
“We respect all teams, and South Africa are among the strongest sides, but we play to achieve positive results and collect the three points,” Hassan said at the pre-match news conference.
All Egyptian players are available for selection except Nantes striker Mostafa Mohamed, who is doubtful due to an ankle injury.
Hassan will need to devise a tactical plan to counter a South African side that has shown more quality than Zimbabwe, particularly in their opening win against Angola.
The Bafana Bafana are noted for their collective work, pace, and powerful shooting, requiring maximum concentration from the Pharaohs.
South Africa coach Hugo Broos also highlighted the difficulty of the encounter, praising the quality of Egypt’s squad, especially Premier League duo Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush.
“The Egyptian team is very strong and has top-quality players such as Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush,” Broos said.
“We know that Egypt have huge experience and an outstanding record, with a competition-high seven titles. I know the Egyptian players well and how to play against them,” he concluded.
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