Eager to Reclaim Victory, Egypt’s National Team, Under Coach Rui Vitoria, Takes on Zambia in Abu Dhabi Friendly.
The Pharaohs, under the guidance of Coach Rui Vitoria, faced their inaugural loss, a 3-1 defeat to Tunisia, in a friendly match back in September. This loss marked the conclusion of an impressive eight-match winning streak since Vitoria’s appointment in July 2022.
These friendlies, featuring Zambia and Algeria, both held in Abu Dhabi, constitute crucial elements of Egypt’s preparations for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers scheduled to commence in November, as well as their campaign in the Africa Cup of Nations next year.
The upcoming match against Zambia promises to be a formidable challenge, especially given the strength of their team,” Vitoria conveyed during the pre-match press conference held on Wednesday.
“While our ultimate aim is to emerge victorious in all our games, we understand that this may not always be attainable. Occasional losses are a part of the sport,” he added.
In Abu Dhabi, Vitoria is fortunate to have all his key players available for the two friendly matches, in stark contrast to the September camp where the absence of Ahly players, as well as injuries sidelining Mahmoud ‘Trezeguet’ Hassan and Arsenal midfielder Mohamed Elneny, posed challenges.
The Portuguese coach has summoned a roster of 25 players, including renowned figures such as Liverpool star Mohamed Salah, Arsenal midfielder Mohamed Elneny, Trabzonspor winger Mahmoud ‘Trezeguet’ Hassan, and the in-form Nantes FC striker, Mostafa Mohamed.
Thursday’s match will signify the 24th showdown between the two teams, with Egypt holding an impressive record of 13 victories, five draws, and six losses in their prior encounters.
