The Pharaohs beat Gabon at Borg Al-Arab stadium in the final group stage game to extend their lead at the top of the group with 14 points, seven ahead second-placed Gabon.

“I believe we created a lot of chances today. There was one team that deserved to win and it was Egypt,” the Portuguese tactician said after the game.

“We also realised several gains as we were able to test different methods and to play several new players. Today was an important chance to give some players playing time so they would gain experience and confidence,” he added.

Despite having the job done, the Pharaohs failed to make an impression during the previous two games against Angola and Gabon.

“We played four games, won three and drew once away. The players deserve to be congratulated,” He added.

Queiroz had reshuffled his team against Gabon making six changes to the starting line-up that was introduced against Angola last Friday.

“It is not easy to find the best combination. We are always trying to improve. Today we had to do without four players because of injuries or yellow cards and it was a chance to try other players. As a coach I have 23 and I hope to have 30 players. It is my duty to give them confidence. A few weeks ago nobody could imagine that some players like Ahmed Yassin, Marwan Hamdi or Emam Ashour would be in the team. Today you saw them on the pitch,” he explained.

Egypt has now reached the playoff phase and will be waiting for a draw to determine their final opponent for the two-legged tie scheduled for March 2022.

“Now we will have to focus on the future, there is the Arab Cup coming and then the Africa Cup of Nations. We have to prepare them well, he concluded.

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