AFCON 2019 Kicks Off: Egypt and Zimbabwe Name Starting Lineups for Opening Match
The wait is over. The 32nd edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2019) officially kicks off tonight at Cairo International Stadium, with host nation Egypt taking on Zimbabwe in Group A. Both teams are arriving at the match fully prepared, with coaches fielding their strongest available lineups to set the tone for the tournament.
For the Pharaohs, coach Javier Aguirre has named a squad packed with star power. Leading the charge is Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah, Egypt’s talisman and top scorer, supported by Mohamed Elneny, Trezeguet, and Ahmed Mohsen in attacking positions. The backline will be marshaled by goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy, alongside defenders Ahmed Elmohamady, Alaa, Hegazy, and Mansour. The midfield duo of Elneny and Hamed is tasked with controlling the tempo and linking defense to attack, while Trezeguet, El Saïd, and Salah provide pace, creativity, and goal-scoring threats.
Zimbabwe, meanwhile, arrives in Cairo with determination, aiming to make history despite never advancing past the group stage in previous AFCON tournaments. Coach Sunday Chidzambwa has opted for his best available lineup, with striker Knowledge Musona and winger Khama Billiat leading the offensive effort. Despite a knee injury sustained in training earlier this week, Billiat is set to start alongside Musona, demonstrating his commitment to helping the Warriors secure a positive result. The defensive unit will feature Sibanda in goal, with Darikwa, Lunga, Mudimu, and Hadebe forming the back four. In midfield, Munetsi and Nakamba will provide stability and distribution, while Karuru, Musona, and Billiat are tasked with creating scoring opportunities. Tino Kadewere’s absence from the starting lineup may affect Zimbabwe’s attacking balance, placing extra responsibility on Musona and Billiat to lead the frontline.
The match promises to be a thrilling affair, with Egypt entering as overwhelming favorites, boosted by the energy of their home crowd. Zimbabwe, however, will be looking to exploit any openings and potentially pull off a surprise against the hosts. Both sides have emphasized the importance of a strong start in this 24-team tournament, where early points can make a decisive difference in the group stage.
Kick-off is scheduled for 8 PM GMT, with thousands of fans filling Cairo Stadium to witness the first moments of this historic edition of the Africa Cup of Nations. The opening match also marks the beginning of a tournament that will feature 24 teams for the first time, introducing new dynamics and opportunities for both established powers and emerging nations.
With star players on the pitch and the opening ceremony concluded, all eyes will be on Salah and Musona to set the tone for their teams. Will the Pharaohs assert their dominance at home, or will the Warriors of Zimbabwe pull off an upset to start AFCON 2019 with a bang? The drama begins tonight.
Official Lineups:
Egypt: El Shenawy – A. El Mohamady, Alaa, Hegazy, Mansour – Elneny, Hamed – Trezeguet, El Saïd, Salah – Mohsen
Zimbabwe: Sibanda – Darikwa, Lunga, Mudimu, Hadebe – Munetsi, Nakamba – Karuru, Musona, Billiat – Mushekwi
