Preview: Botswana vs Egypt

Soccer News 2024/09/09 02:21

Botswana's only AFCON appearance came in 2012 and they lost all three of their matches at that tournament - if their start to the current qualifying campaign is anything to go by, the Zebras could be in for a long wait.


Despite holding their own for the most part, Didier Gomes Da Rosa's men eventually succumbed to a Sidi Bouna Amar goal in the 84th minute as they went down 1-0 to Mauritania.


The defeat extended Botswana's winless run to four matches - two draws and two defeats - including a poor run in the COSAFA Cup.


Didier Gomes was appointed head coach of the Zebras in November ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, and he has managed just two wins - both in World Cup qualifiers.


The home side have also failed to score in six of 11 games under the Frenchman, while they have conceded 10 times in that time.


Things could get worse as the hosts face a team they have never beaten, despite playing them six times in the past - including four AFCON qualifiers in which they lost three and drew one.


Africa's most successful continental side, Egypt, lived up to their reputation in the first match of their AFCON qualifying campaign at the Cairo International Stadium last Friday.


The Pharaohs beat Cape Verde 3-0 thanks to first-half goals from Ramy Rabia and Omar Marmoush and a second-half strike from Ibrahim Adel.


Currently top of Group C, Hossam Hassan's side will be hoping to extend their winning streak in AFCON qualifying to six matches and their unbeaten run in all competitions to four when they take on Botswana.


Egypt are also on a four-match unbeaten run away from home - three wins and a draw - but their last away defeat came in an AFCON qualifier against Ethiopia.


Botswana possible starting lineup:

Phoko; Mangolo, Ditlhokwe, Kopelang, Sikele; Mohutsiwa, Gaolaolwe, Majafi; Orebonye, Tlhalefang, Seakanyeng


Egypt possible starting lineup:

El Shenawy; Hany, Rabia, Fathi, Hamdy; Trezeguet, Attia; Marmoush, Sayed, Salah; Mohamed


Prediction:Botswana 0-2 Egypt


Botswana VS Egypt stream and TV listing

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  • CAF Africa Cup of Nations

  • Botswana

  • Egypt

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