Cape Verde vs Egypt prediction: AFRICA: Africa Cup of Nations betting tips on match 2024-01-21 20:00.
Cape Verde became the first team to qualify for the Round of 16 of this Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) when they made it two wins from two with a convincing 3-0 triumph over Mozambique on Friday. The result also means that, ahead of this final Group B clash with Egypt, the Blue Sharks are already guaranteed top spot and can plan for their return to this same venue for their last 16 fixture seven days later.
After such a comprehensive win, Cape Verde coach Bubista was understandably delighted with Friday’s victory and now has the luxury of being able to rest players for this match. He’ll also save himself the worry of constantly checking the score of the other Group B fixture, played in tandem, as his side go head-to-head with the Pharaohs for the first time.
Coming into this game, Egypt have two points after 2-2 draws against both Mozambique and Ghana. A win on Monday will guarantee them second place, as could a third successive stalemate depending on the result in Group B’s other game. A point could even be enough to see them join their opponents in the second round as one of the four best third-placed sides, though they won’t want to rely on that avenue.
The record seven-time winners have got out of the group stage in the last three AFCONs, but their chances of progressing further on this occasion were dealt a major setback when captain and star striker Mo Salah was ruled out not only of this match but also the Round of 16 (should Egypt qualify) with a hamstring strain. Given he had scored or assisted in 12 of his last 15 appearances for club or country prior to the game against Ghana, his non-selection seemingly leaves an enormous void.
Players to watch: Cape Verde skipper Ryan Mendes is in strong form with two goals from his last three international appearances. Egypt’s Mostafa Mohamed could be the one to step up in Salah’s absence after netting both the opener against Mozambique and the final goal of the game against Ghana.
Hot stat: Egypt scored the final goal of the game in each of their last eight competitive matches.