Egypt enter their final Group B fixture against Angola with qualification already secured, and coach Hossam Hassan now considers rotation as the Pharaohs look ahead to the knockout stage.
The seven-time African champions sealed progress to the round of 16 with victories over Zimbabwe and South Africa, a return that allowed the technical staff to manage workloads ahead of a demanding latter phase of the tournament.
Monday’s match, scheduled for 4:00 PM, presents an opportunity to protect key figures, including captain Mohamed Salah.
Salah, who already struck twice in the competition, remains central to Egypt’s ambitions. With the knockout rounds approaching, the coaching staff plan to give the forward valuable recovery time.
Sources close to the squad expect the Liverpool star to start on the bench, allowing him to preserve energy while teammates receive minutes in competitive conditions.
Despite the likely changes, Egypt do not intend to ease off. Hassan continues to stress the importance of finishing top of Group B, a position that could shape a more favorable path in the next round.
The absence of right-back Mohamed Hany through suspension also forces tactical adjustments, offering opportunities for squad players to stake their claim.
For Angola, the picture looks far more urgent. The Palancas Negras arrive in Agadir under intense pressure, knowing only a victory keeps realistic hopes of qualification alive.
With survival on the line, Angola must show aggression, discipline, and belief against one of the tournament’s most experienced sides.
The Angolan camp views Egypt’s potential rotation as an opening rather than a guarantee. Players and staff understand that Egypt’s depth still carries quality and experience.
Angola plan to approach the contest with courage, aiming to disrupt rhythm and exploit any lack of cohesion from a reshuffled Pharaohs lineup.
Hassan, meanwhile, balances ambition with caution. He wants momentum and authority heading into the round of 16, yet he also values freshness and squad harmony.
The match therefore becomes a test of Egypt’s depth, mentality, and adaptability rather than a mere formality.
As Group B reaches its conclusion, the contrast in motivation could not feel sharper. Egypt seek control, balance, and long-term reward. Angola chase survival and relevance with nothing to hold back.
The outcome will determine not only who advances, but also how each side carries confidence into the decisive phase of AFCON 2025.
