Vitoria: Pharaohs will be ready to face all barriers

by Staff Reporter

Sunday Mar 19, 2023. 13:00

Egypt head coach Rui Vitoria is preparing his squad to combat the elements when they face Malawi in a crunch 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header in the final week of March.

The Pharaohs are bottom of Group D on goal difference after kicking off their campaign with a 1-0 win over Guinea followed by a surprise 2-0 defeat to Ethiopia.

Vitoria’s side will host the Flames at Cairo International Stadium on March 24 before travelling to Lilongwe for the away leg at the Bingu National Stadium four days later.

The Portuguese tactician has stressed the importance of winning both matches, with all four teams tied on three points after the opening two rounds, and is determined to conquer the obstacles in their path, including the extreme heat and rain in Malawi.

“The two games are very important for us as we play only to win,” Vitoria said a press conference on Saturday after naming his 24-squad for the two encounters.

“The game against Malawi (in Lilongwe) will be played at 3pm during Ramadan month but we will prepare ourselves to face all barriers including the hot weather and expected rainfall.

“We follow the players’ special training program and we are in continued contact with them.”