Egypt and Morocco clash in the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals and soccanews looks at how coach Carlos Queiroz could line up his troops for the North African derby at the Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium in Yaounde.
He denied Eric Bailly from the penalty spot during the shootout and should be strongly considered for a start, which will be his first in the tournament.
The Liverpool forward will be keen to inspire his side to a place in the last four during Sunday’s clash against their North African rivals
Goalkeeper – Mohamed Gabal
The Zamalek SC goalkeeper replaced his injured Al Ahly counterpart Mohamed El Shenawy in the 88th minute during their Round of 16 game against Ivory Coast.
Right-back – Omar Kamal
Kamal has been a consistent figure in the Egyptian starting team and should keep his place as they seek a win against their North African rivals.
Left-back – Ahmed Abou El Fotouh
The 23-year-old fullback has shown solidity along his flank and the Morocco game should be another chance to showcase his top talent should he be drafted into the starting XI.
Centre-back – Ahmed Hegazi
Hegazi withstood the pressure and consistent attacks by the Ivorian strikers to help the 2010 champions record a clean sheet at full-time and in extra time.
His aerial prowess and experience were key as the Pharaohs went on to earn the quarter-final slot against star-studded opponents and the same is expected of him on Sunday.
Centre-back – Mohamed Abdelmonem
Since he replaced Akram Tawfik in the 11th minute against Nigeria in the group stage opening game, Abdelmonem has never looked back.
He has played a crucial role for the record champions alongside Hegazi at the back and is strongly expected to start ahead of Mahmoud Hamdy.
Midfielder – Amr El Soleya
He should be rewarded with a start as he has been a pivotal and stabilising figure on the Egyptian side.
Midfielder – Mohamed Elneny
The Arsenal forward was named the man of the match against the Elephants and his slot in the first-team is almost assured.
Midfielder – Ahmed Zizo
Zizo came on for Hamdy Fathy in the 84th minute in the Round of 16 duel and his introduction brought a fresh breath in the Egyptian attacking front.
His performance, coupled with Fathy’s injury doubt, means he is set to be among the starters.
Forward – Mohamed Salah
The Liverpool man has scored just one goal in the tournament and being the captain much is expected of him especially in the North Africa derby.
Forward – Mostafa Mohamed
The Galatasaray forward is expected to start ahead of Mohamed Sheriff who replaced him in the 90th minute against the 2015 champions.
Forward – Omar Marmoush
He has shown flashes of brilliance in the tournament and coach Queiroz should give him a start again so he could get more minutes to try and flourish more
