Cape Verde face a crucial test in their bid to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as they prepare to host Egypt in a Group C qualifier on Friday evening. Kick-off is set for 18:00 CAT at the Estádio Nacional de Cabo Verde in Praia, where the Blue Sharks will be fighting to keep their AFCON ambitions within reach.
The stakes are high for Cape Verde, currently positioned third in the group standings.
They are in a precarious situation following a 1-0 loss to Botswana on 15 October, a result that dealt a blow to their qualification hopes.
To stay in contention, Cape Verde not only need a win over Egypt but must also rely on Mauritania defeating Botswana.
This scenario would give Cape Verde a fighting chance as they head into their final group match.
On the other hand, Egypt come into this match with their qualification already secured.
A 1-0 victory over Mauritania last month marked their fourth consecutive win in the qualifiers, extending their perfect record and securing the Pharaohs a spot in the upcoming tournament.
Currently sitting comfortably at the top of the group, Egypt will nevertheless aim to continue their dominance and maintain a 100 percent winning streak in Group C.
Historically, Egypt have had the upper hand in their encounters with Cape Verde.
In their previous two meetings, the Pharaohs emerged unbeaten, winning once and drawing once.
The last encounter between the teams saw Egypt claim a decisive 3-0 victory in Cairo on 6 September, highlighting the challenges Cape Verde face in reversing their fortunes.
For Cape Verde, this match offers a final opportunity to spark a turnaround in their qualifying campaign.
Despite their underdog status, the Blue Sharks have shown resilience throughout the group stage.
Their determination, combined with the backing of a home crowd, may give them the edge they need to pull off an upset against a formidable Egyptian side.
Egypt, however, are unlikely to relent.
With an eye on maintaining momentum and consistency, the Pharaohs will be eager to conclude the group stage with a flawless record.
The team’s depth, including several star players performing well in both domestic and international leagues, provides head coach Rui Vitória with a wealth of options as he seeks to sustain Egypt’s winning form.
The match in Praia is poised to be a hard-fought battle.
For Cape Verde, a victory is essential to keep their AFCON journey alive, while Egypt aim to showcase their strength as one of Africa’s top teams.
Football fans can expect a thrilling encounter as the Blue Sharks strive for a win that would set up a dramatic finish to Group C in the final qualification round.
