Former Egypt defender Wael Gomaa has shared his tactical insight ahead of the much-anticipated quarter-final clash between Egypt and Ivory Coast at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Pharaohs are set to face the defending champions on Saturday, January 10, with a place in the semi-finals at stake in what is expected to be a fiercely contested encounter.
Speaking on the beIN Sports channel, Gomaa stressed that Egypt must rely on intelligence rather than matching Ivory Coast’s physical pace.
“My opinion is that the Egyptian national team cannot keep up with Ivory Coast in their pace, and this is an experience of intelligence,” he said.
Gomaa explained that Ivory Coast are likely to apply intense pressure, but believes Egypt have the experience and composure to cope with it. According to him, Egypt’s midfield is capable of controlling the rhythm of the game, which could open up opportunities in behind the Ivorian defence.
“The Ivory Coast team will play by putting pressure on you, and the Egyptian national team players have experience playing under pressure, and we have a midfield that is good at controlling the flow of the match. In this case, there will be spaces in the back line of Ivory Coast for the Egyptian players, Mohamed Salah, Omar Marmoush, Zizo and Emam Ashour, to exploit,” Gomaa shared.
He also highlighted the importance of experience in decisive moments, noting that knockout matches are often settled by fine margins.
“Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush have the experience to score goals. Knockout matches are always decided by small details. For example, if a player is sent off, it can turn the tide of the match,” Gomaa added.
The former Al Ahly defender urged the players to believe in their ability, pointing to Egypt’s defensive strength and mentality against high-pressure opponents.
“The Egyptian national team players must have faith in achieving victory. We are good at defending, and we have a mentality that depends on waiting for teams of this type,” Gomaa noted.
Gomaa concluded with confidence that Egypt can punish Ivory Coast if they make the most of their chances.
“We can sting Ivory Coast and beat them, and our players know very well how to take advantage of opportunities, and God willing, they will be successful in capitalising on them,” he added.
