Fathi expects tough battle

Egypt right-back Ahmed Fathi expects a tough battle against Cameroon in the African Cup of Nations final, unlike their first-round meeting in Kumasi.

كتب : Hatem Maher

الجمعة، 08 فبراير 2008 - 21:05
Fathi doubtful for US tie
Egypt right-back Ahmed Fathi expects a tough battle against Cameroon in the African Cup of Nations final, unlike their first-round meeting in Kumasi.

The defending champions booked their place in the tournament's finale after thrashing Ivory Coast 4-1 on Thursday.

Egypt kicked off their campaign with another emphatic 4-2 win over Cameroon, but right-back Fathi believes this time it won't be an easy affair.

"Cameroon will be definitely stronger than the side we beat in the first round," he said.

"We need to prepare well for such a decisive clash," the Ahli man told Nile Sports on Friday.

Fully Deserved

Mohamed Zidan is delighted Egypt have proven they have what it takes to retain their Nations Cup crown.

"We showed the whole world our true capabilities," the Hamburg forward insisted.

Zidan was inspirational for Egypt in Ghana. He scored two goals against Cameroon in the opener and played a key role in the Pharaohs' triumphs whenever he came on as a substitute.

Egypt will be looking to claim a sixth Nations Cup in their history when they take on four-time winners Cameroon in Accra on Sunday.