Egypt coach Hassan Shehata is refusing to look too far into the future ahead of their second African Nations Cup group game against Mozambique.
Shehata’s side, who are bidding for a third straight title in Angola, can all but assure themselves a place in the quarter-finals with a win in Benguela following their impressive 3-1 triumph over Nigeria in their opener.
Not all has been plain sailing in the build-up to the game, with reports from the north Africans’ camp suggesting Hosni Abd-Rabou, Hossam Ghaly and Wael Gomaa are struggling with a virus.
Nonetheless, Shehata is fully focused on the job on hand.
“We did well in the opening game against Nigeria, but we must continue the good work when we play Mozambique,” he said.
“That win over the Nigerians was just the beginning. We still have a long way to go and still need the prayers of our fans.”
The victory put the six-time champions on three points in Group B, two ahead of Benin and Mozambique, while the Super Eagles prop up the table.
Apart from the virus, there are no serious injury worries for the Egyptians.
Mozambique, meanwhile, will be buoyed heading into the game after their last result saw them fight back from 2-0 down to draw with Benin.
It was a memorable point for coach Mart Nooij and one that still gives his side a fair chance of qualifying.
Veteran striker Manuel Bucuane admitted it was not the preferred result, but still feels optimistic ahead of the game with Egypt.
He said: “We made some silly mistakes and conceded two goals, but we came back strongly.
“It was a game we targeted all three points, but we managed a draw which is not bad.
“We have tough games remaining and will do our best to get our targeted results.”
