This Sunday, the Egyptian national team will host Guinea-Bissau at the Cairo International Stadium as part of the African qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Here’s a look at what to expect in this match.
Match preview
Egypt is performing well, leading its group and securing a place in the World Cup. The team has shown strong performance with seven wins and two draws in nine matches, only allowing two goals against them. Their main strength is controlling the game and taking advantage of opponents’ mistakes.
Mohamed Salah is the standout player for Egypt, scoring two goals in their last game against Djibouti (3-0). His speed on the wing is crucial for the team’s attack. Egypt has also kept clean sheets in their last four home qualifiers.
On the other hand, Guinea-Bissau has had uneven results and modest performance statistics. They’ve only scored eight goals and conceded nine in the group, highlighting issues in their attack and defense. In their recent match, they lost to Ethiopia (0-1), again showing difficulties in the final third.
However, Guinea-Bissau’s key advantage is their quick and athletic forward line. Player Beto is a threat during counterattacks, and wingers like Rodrigues and Sanka add speed to their plays. Yet, against a well-organized and physically strong Egyptian team, these attributes may not significantly impact the game.
Probable lineups
- Egypt: El-Shenawy, Hany, Ibrahim, Rabia, Hamdi Sharaf, Abdelmagid, Fathi, Attia, Ahmed Said, Trezeguet, Salah
- Guinea-Bissau: Balde, Nanu, Sori Mane, Fali Kande, Renato Nyaga, Nito Gomes, Panutche Camara, Dalcio, Beto, Rodrigues, Sanka Tchami
Match facts and head-to-head
- Egypt remains unbeaten in the qualifiers with seven wins and two draws.
- Guinea-Bissau has scored only eight goals in nine matches.
- In their previous encounters, Egypt has dominated in shots and corners.
Prediction
Egypt is securely at the top of the group with a strong defense. With Salah leading the offense, they can change the game in an instant. Guinea-Bissau’s struggle to convert opportunities makes it hard for them to pose a serious challenge to the favorites.