Egypt have their backs against the wall as the Pharaohs prepare for a massive Group D matchup against Guinea-Bissau on Saturday at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations. Following a disappointing effort in their 1-0 defeat to Nigeria, the Egyptian team and manager Carlos Queiroz are facing harsh criticism from supporters and media, making their clash against the Djurtus a must-win. Guinea-Bissau are coming off a disappointing 0-0 draw against Sudan, a matchup they were widely expected to win and earn three crucial points from.
Pharaohs manager Carlos Queiroz is taking the brunt of criticism related to the Nigeria loss, and the Portuguese coach is dealing with a crisis as well as the possibility of losing his job. Queiroz’s reliance on European-based players while including few Egyptian Premier League players in his lineups has not impressed Egyptian supporters, but a win on Saturday could take the heat off if only temporarily. One of the few domestic-based players that Queiroz favors, Al Ahly midfielder Amr El Solia, has started in every competitive match since Queiroz took over and will reportedly be available following his recovery from a calf injury. Mohamed Salah was isolated all match against Nigeria, and it remains to be seen if there will be a change of personnel around Salah in the Egyptian attack.
Guinea-Bissau stated before the competition that they are aiming for a spot in the knockout rounds, and a result on Saturday will be crucial for the Djurtus. Multiple key players were missing against Sudan due to Covid-19, and it appears that Covid is continuing to have a major impact. Now manager Baciro Candé is out and will not be on the sidelines due to a positive test, joining a group of unavailable important players that includes central midfielder Alfa Semedo as well as starting right back Nanu and striker Joseph Mendes. Backup goalkeeper Maurice Gomis, starter against Sudan, is also now quarantined but fortunately captain and starter Jonas Mendes is back just in time. Candé stated his team’s intentions to fight for everything on Saturday.
Check out the links below from English and Portuguese language media with further news on both teams.
