Former Egypt coach Hamada Sedki has highlighted the weakness of the record champions ahead of their second group game against South Africa.
The Pharaohs secured a 2-1 win over Zimbabwe in their opener of the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Ahead of the game, Sedki has highlighted several concerns within the Pharaohs’ camp, despite their winning start to the tournament.
“The victory was extremely difficult, but it was very important. A draw or a defeat would have complicated Egypt’s path from the very beginning,” he told the BBC.
The former manager then went on to warn that issues remain in the side’s midfield balance and defensive organisation.
“Egypt clearly suffers in midfield depth and defensive shape, but the inclusion of Hamdy Fathy and Marwan Attia helped create relative balance, especially given it was the opening match.”
The 64-year-old cautioned against early judgments, insisting that mistakes seen against Zimbabwe are normal and correctable as the tournament progresses.
“The errors are natural in football. It’s too early to judge the team, and these issues can be fixed with more matches and better cohesion.”
He went on to explain what he believes would be the best way for the Pharaohs to set up their star-studded attack, saying that Omar Marmoush is most effective on the left flank, while Mohamed Salah should be deployed through the middle rather than out wide — a position he believes maximises the Liverpool star’s goal threat.
With both Egypt and South Africa coming off opening victories, Friday’s encounter is shaping up to be one of the standout fixtures of the group stage, as both sides look to tighten their grip on qualification for the knockout rounds.
Kick off for the game is scheduled at 15:00 GMT.
