Record Africa Cup of Nations champions Egypt are well in line to make history once again after staying seven years in the cold, away from the continental showpiece.
Having won the historic treble between 2006 and 2010, The Pharaohs failed to qualify for the last three AFCON tournaments, but managed to qualify for the 2017 event. Under new boss Hector Cuper.
The Egyptians were not among the tournament’s favourites coming into the Gabon showpiece, but have so far proved they are still a force to reckon.
The North Africans have made it to the semi-final stage without conceding a single goal.
Having drawn with Mali in their opening match, most people wrote them off too quickly, and didn’t foresee them going past the group stage.
1-0 wins in their last three games have however seen them remain among the last four stage of the competition, where they are scheduled to meet Burkina Faso who eliminated Tunisia by beating them 2-0.
If Egypt continue their run of not conceding goals, they may make history by being the first side ever to lift the trophy without allowing any goal past their posts. Also, they would extend their number of AFCON titles to eight.
With the talent available at coach Hector’s disposal, the Egyptians now have a realistic chance at reclaiming their title as Africa’s best side.
The Pharaohs have top names in the team, including Arsenal’s Mohamed Elneny, Roma’s Mohamed Salah and Hull City’s Ahmed El Mohamady.
The Egyptians will play their semi-final game against Burkina Faso on Wednesday.
