Record seven-time champions Egypt begin their quest for an eighth AFCON title against Zimbabwe at the Stade Adrar in Agadir. For Mohamed Salah, this tournament represents perhaps his final opportunity to achieve continental glory.
Salah's Last Dance?
At 33, Mohamed Salah enters his fifth AFCON and third as captain knowing this could be his last realistic chance to lift the trophy that has eluded him. The Liverpool forward was part of teams that reached finals in 2017 and 2021, losing to Cameroon and Senegal respectively. His turbulent season at Anfield, where tensions with manager Arne Slot led to benchings, may fuel his determination.
Salah boasts seven AFCON goals and four assists in his tournament career. Alongside him, Manchester City's Omar Marmoush adds another elite attacking threat, while Trezeguet was Egypt's top scorer in qualifying with four goals.
Egypt's Strength in Depth
Manager Hossam Hassan, Egypt's all-time leading scorer, faces one significant absence – centre-back Mohamed Abdelmonem misses the tournament with an ACL injury. The Pharaohs qualified unbeaten, scoring 12 goals and conceding just two. A recent 2-1 friendly victory over Nigeria provided a timely confidence boost.
Goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy, a four-time CAF Champions League winner with Al Ahly, may be playing his final AFCON at 37.
Zimbabwe's Return
The Warriors make their sixth AFCON appearance after missing the 2023 edition due to a FIFA suspension. They have never progressed beyond the group stage, winning just three of 15 AFCON matches. A managerial change saw Mario Marinica replace Michael Nees just weeks before the tournament, adding uncertainty.
Captain Knowledge Musona, 35, will lead the attack in one of his final AFCON appearances. Luton Town midfielder Marvelous Nakamba provides Premier League experience in midfield.
Head-to-Head
Egypt are unbeaten in their last 10 matches against Zimbabwe, winning eight. The Pharaohs defeated Zimbabwe in the opening games of both the 2004 and 2019 editions. Zimbabwe have never beaten Egypt in competitive football.
Prediction
Zimbabwe will defend deep and frustrate, but Egypt's attacking quality should tell. Expect Salah to mark his return with a goal. Egypt 2-0 Zimbabwe.