publish time

14/01/2024

author name Arab Times

publish time

14/01/2024

Mohamed Salah and hid team mates train ahead of the African Cup of Nations opener.

ABIDJAN, Jan 13: The African Cup of Nations begins with Egypt facing Mozambique in Abidjan, a team considered a "good omen" by the Egyptians, having won the title three times in previous encounters. Ghana and Nigeria also start their campaigns against Cape Verde and Equatorial Guinea, respectively.

The "Pharaohs," seven-time African champions, led by coach Rui Vitoria, seek three points at the Felix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium to ease calculations before their upcoming clash with Ghana. The squad includes stars like Mohamed Salah, Mustafa Mohamed, Omar Marmoush, and Mohamed Elneny.

Vitoria acknowledges the tough competition but expresses confidence in his team's ability. Salah aims to lead Egypt to its eighth title and compensate for losses in the 2017 and 2022 finals.Mozambique, attending for the fifth time, relies on Portuguese league players, hoping to secure its first win.

In the same group, Ghana, four-time champions, faces Cape Verde, aiming for a victory. Ghana, under coach Chris Hughton, features stars like Mohamed Quddus, Sales Abdel Samad, and Iñaki Williams. Arsenal's Thomas Partey is ruled out due to injury.

In Group A, Nigeria, three-time champions, faces Equatorial Guinea, aiming to avoid surprises before clashing with host Ivory Coast. The "Super Eagles" boast an offensive lineup with Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, and Kelechi Iheanacho.Nigeria, with a rich history in the tournament, seeks to add to their three titles. The African Cup of Nations promises intense competition and showcases the continent's football prowess.