AFCON 2023: Egypt v DR Congo, a must-win tie

Egypt and DR Congo both reached the round of 16 of AFCON 2023 by picking up 3 points from 3 draws. The two sides must now settle it this Sunday, 28 January, for a place in the quarter-finals.

Runners-up at the last AFCON, the Pharaohs have struggled badly in this edition. They had to battle through their first two group games to scrape draws (2-2 against Mozambique and 2-2 against Ghana). And on the final matchday, they were pegged back by Cape Verde and conceded an equaliser in the last minute (2-2).

Read more on the same subject: AFCON 2023: a quarter-final ticket for Guinea

What is more, Egypt have lost their leader, Mohamed Salah. The Liverpool forward suffered a left hamstring injury against Ghana and is almost certain to miss the rest of the tournament. While the attack is in good shape with 6 goals scored, defensively they are not in great form (6 goals conceded). Goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy (shoulder) and Emam Ashour (concussion) are also out.

For this tie, Egypt will have to raise their game against a very ambitious Democratic Republic of Congo side. The Leopards finished 2nd in Group F behind Morocco, with whom they drew (1-1). It was a more than convincing display from Sébastien Desabre's men. They managed to contain the Atlas Lions and even put them under severe pressure, particularly in the second half. A performance that could inspire the Congolese against the Egyptians.

Read more on the same subject: AFCON 2023 - Sébastien Desabre: "We are in the role of challengers"

"So far, we have shown some interesting things but not necessarily backed them up with wins. Tomorrow is a knockout match. We will have to do everything to win. My players are motivated on that front. We will use the ball and impose our game. We want to show everyone that DR Congo are back," said the Leopards head coach at a press conference.

Kick-off is at 20:00 GMT.

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