In the fourth round of 16 match at the Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt is set to square off against Congo DR at Stade Laurent Pokou on Sunday evening.
The victor of this encounter will progress to the quarter-finals, where they await the winner of the Equatorial Guinea versus Guinea match earlier in the day in Abidjan.
Match Preview
Despite being seven-time champions, Egypt's journey to the last 16 has been unconventional, drawing all three group stage matches 2-2. Rui Vitoria's side exhibited varied performances, including a resilient comeback against Ghana.
Facing Congo DR, a team they have historically dominated in AFCON encounters, The Pharaohs seek a more straightforward result. However, with a tendency for knockout ties to go to penalties, Egypt anticipates a challenging match.
Congo DR shares a similar path to the last 16, drawing all group stage fixtures. Sebastien Desabre's side enters this clash with a record of no wins in their last six matches.
The Leopards, having advanced from the group stage in their last four AFCON appearances, aim to overcome Egypt and progress further. While their goal tally was modest in the group stage, they remain a formidable opponent.
Team News
Egypt will be without Mohamed Salah, their star player, due to injury sustained against Ghana. Mostafa Mohamed is expected to lead the attack. Additionally, goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shennawy and midfielder Emam Ashour are unavailable. Congo DR's defender Henock Inonga may be a doubt due to a head injury.
Yoane Wissa, who scored their opening goal in the competition, and Cedric Bakambu will play crucial roles.
Possible Starting Lineups
Egypt:
Gabal; Hany, Hegazy, Abdelmonem, Fotouh; Fathi, Attia, Elneny; Zizo, Mohamed, Marmoush
Congo DR:
Mpasi; Kalulu, Mbemba, Batubinsika, Masuaku; Pickel, Moutoussamy; Silas, Kakuta, Bakambu; Wissa
The clash promises an intense battle as both teams aim to secure a spot in the quarter-finals, setting the stage for an exciting encounter at Stade Laurent Pokou.
