Mido: Egypt are favorites to win the African title

Former Tottenham Hotspur & Egypt international ex-player Ahmed “Mido” Hossam says his country are favorites to win this year’s Africa Cup of Nations on home soil.

Mido was speaking after the Pharaohs were placed in a group alongside DR Congo, Uganda and Zimbabwe in Friday’s draw.

“Egypt are favorites to win the title,” the former striker said.

“I don’t say that because I’m Egyptian but really Egypt have a very good team,” said Mido.

“Add to that the fans will support the team very well so I’m optimistic that we will do it,” the former Tottenham player added.

Mido also said that Morocco are the only team “that can compete with Egypt for this title.”

“I respect teams like Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal but from what I can see, Morocco is the only team can be a stumbling block for Egypt.”

The 2019 Africa Cup of Nations will take place in Egypt from 21 June to 19 July, meaning Europe-based players – including the likes of Egypt’s Mohamed Salah and Mohamed Elneny – will not miss club games.

Mido missed out on playing in a Nations Cup final on home soil in 2006 after he fell out with the coach earlier in the tournament.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLlO96YHglM

The Pharaohs went on to win the trophy and also won the next two editions in 2008 and 2010 to make it seven Nations Cup victories in total, a record number of tournament triumphs.

Three teams – Madagascar, Mauritania, and Burundi – will make their Nations Cup debuts at Egypt 2019 which will be the biggest Africa Cup of Nations in history with 24 teams, and Mido welcomes the expansion.

“That’s not bad, it gives many countries in Africa the chance to have the honor of playing in this big event.”

Egypt’s opening game will be against Zimbabwe at the Cairo International Stadium on 21 June.

If you missed the African Cup of Nations daw in GIZA, Egypt you can watch it right here