The Portuguese coach, Roy Vitoria, at the helm of Egypt’s national team, has decided on four crucial changes to the Pharaohs’ lineup for their upcoming encounter against Ghana.
The match is scheduled for Thursday evening at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium, as part of the second round of matches in Group Two of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, being held in Ivory Coast.
This decision follows the unexpected setback of a 2-2 draw against Mozambique in the opening round.
A source within the national team, in exclusive statements to “Al Watan Sport,” revealed, “Vitoria is contemplating alterations in the flanks, with Ahmed Fattouh likely to replace Mohamed Hamdi on the left, and Omar Kamal taking over the right flank instead of Mohamed Hani.”
Group Two Heats Up after First Round Results
Group Two has become intensely competitive following the outcomes of the initial round.
Egypt secured a 2-2 draw against Mozambique, while Cape Verde triumphed over Ghana with a 2-1 scoreline.
Consequently, the group standings are currently as follows:
1. Cape Verde: 3 points
2. Mozambique: 1 point
3. Egypt: 1 point
4. Ghana: No points
In the second round, Egypt faces Ghana on Thursday at 10 PM local time, while Mozambique takes on Cape Verde at 4 PM the following Friday, as part of the same matchday.
The source also indicated that “Omar Marmoush might contribute as a left winger instead of Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet, with the possibility of Marwan Atia playing instead of Mohamed El Neny in the midfield.
The final decisions will be made during the last training sessions before the Black Stars match.”
Moreover, an insider from the Egyptian national team disclosed behind-the-scenes moments involving Mohamed Salah, the team’s captain, in the dressing room after the disappointing draw against Mozambique.
The source emphasized that Salah appeared visibly upset and saddened by the unexpected draw.
In a composed and silent atmosphere within the dressing room, Mohamed Salah conveyed to his teammates the importance of self-confidence to avoid a recurrence of such disheartening moments.
The source emphasized that Salah urged the players to swiftly overcome the setback, maintain focus, and not be preoccupied with external opinions.
The primary objective is to secure a victory against Ghana in the upcoming match, seeking redemption for the Egyptian fans.
Egypt, under the guidance of Portuguese coach Roy Vitoria, aims to defeat Ghana on Thursday at 10 PM Cairo time, rekindling hopes of advancing beyond the group stage in the African Cup of Nations, following the positive draw against Mozambique.
