Egypt coach Hector Cuper expects a tough challenge against Mali in the opening game of the African Cup of Nations on Tuesday.
The Egyptian team will be eyeing a winning start against Mali before meeting Uganda and Ghana in their Group D campaign.
"We are fully concentrated on our strategy not on the opponent. Height and strength of Mali's players will make the game very physical," Cuper said in a press conference Monday night.
On Sunday, Cuper said that his side is well prepared to deal with the height of Mali's players, but he still believes that beating the Eagles won't be an easy mission.
"Until now I see that all teams are at the same level. There is no doubt that Mali match will be a difficult one just like any other game in the competition," the coach explained.
"I will choose the players convenient with such game," the 61-year old tactician added.
Cuper revealed to unveil his lineup and just said that keeper Sherif Ekramy has been ruled out with an injury.
"We will be playing a match every three days so I won't be depending only on 11 players. All the players will get some time," the coach concluded.
The former Inter Milan and Valencia boss is seeking to lead Egypt to their first AFCON triumph since they won the last of their record seven titles in 2010 in Angola.
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