Egypt Begin Afcon Campaign Against Familiar Foes Zimbabwe
So, the Africa Cup of Nations story continues, and the spotlight is firmly on Egypt as they kick off their Group B campaign against Zimbabwe. This is the final match of the day, scheduled for an evening kickoff, and it already feels like one of those games loaded with expectation, history, and pressure—especially on the Pharaohs.
Egypt come into this tournament as one of the clear pre-competition favourites. That status has been earned over decades, with seven Afcon titles already in the cabinet and hopes of an eighth firmly alive. This opening match against Zimbabwe is being viewed as a chance to set the tone early, to show intent, and to remind everyone why Egypt are so often feared at this level.
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History is very much on Egypt’s side. In fact, Zimbabwe have struggled badly in this fixture over the years. Egypt have won eight of their 13 previous meetings, including the last six in a row. Zimbabwe’s only victory came way back in December 1992 during World Cup qualifying, which tells you just how long it’s been since they last tasted success against the Pharaohs. Even more telling is Zimbabwe’s Afcon record in opening games. They have never won their first match at the tournament, with their only opening-day point coming from a 2-2 draw against Algeria in 2017.
A lot of attention, as always, is being drawn toward Mohamed Salah. Egypt’s captain and talisman begins what could feel like one of his final realistic chances to lift a major international trophy. At 33, and after a turbulent few weeks at club level with Liverpool, this tournament may be viewed as a defining chapter in his international career. His leadership, creativity, and composure will be relied upon heavily, even if the spotlight sometimes feels unforgiving.
Egypt’s squad looks balanced and experienced, with a familiar 4-2-3-1 setup expected to give Salah freedom in advanced areas while offering defensive stability behind him. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, are likely to adopt a more cautious approach. With a 4-1-4-1 formation, their focus will be on staying compact, breaking up play in midfield, and hoping to frustrate Egypt long enough to create opportunities on the counter.
On paper, this looks like a mismatch, and that’s exactly why Egypt will be expected to deliver. Anything less than a convincing performance could raise early questions. For Zimbabwe, the pressure is different. A disciplined display and a positive result would be seen as a major statement. As Afcon so often proves, though, reputations mean little once the whistle blows, and surprises are never completely off the table.
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