Sparks will fly as two of the most successful teams in Africa go toe-to-toe with each other at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2023). Which of these sides will be left standing when all is said and done?
Egypt vs Ghana overview
This Group B match between Egypt and Ghana will be played at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan. Kick-off time is 9 pm WAT on Thursday January 18.
Egypt
Seven-time AFCON champions Egypt had a disappointing opening game. Although they were the overwhelming favourites against Mozambique, Rui Vitoria's troops needed a stoppage-time penalty in order to salvage a point. The Pharaohs will set their sights on three valuable points on Thursday.
Ghana
Likewise, Ghana's AFCON opener didn't go as well as they had hoped, as they lost to Cape Verde. This is a must-win for the Black Stars, as any other result would put a huge dent in their quest for a fifth Nations Cup title.
Egypt vs Ghana head to head
The first time these teams squared off against each other was in a friendly match in July 1960. Both sides have met on many occasions since then, and those clashes have been a bit one-sided.
In 23 previous skirmishes between Egypt and Ghana, the Pharaohs have 12 wins. This is more than they've drawn (6 games) and lost (5 games) combined.
That said, the last time these teams clashed was in 2017, in the qualifying rounds of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. As it stands, Ghana did not win any of their last four meetings with the Pharaohs.
Egypt vs Ghana potential lineups
The Pharaohs are expected to line up in a 4-3-3 formation, with the ever-dependable Mohamed El-Shenawy between the sticks.
It should also be worth keeping an eye out for Liverpool's Mohammed Salah, who is a two-time African footballer of the year. The 31-year-old also made the AFCON team of the tournament on two occasions.
On the other hand, Chris Hughton is expected to adopt a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Athletic Bilbao's Iñaki Williams leading the charge.
These are our probable Egypt vs Ghana lineups.
Egypt
Goalkeeper: Mohamed El-Shenawy.
Defenders: Mohamed Hany, Ahmed Hegazy, Mohamed Abdelmonem, Mohamed Hamdi.
Midfielders: Hamdi Fathi, Mohamed Elneny, Zizo.
Forwards: Mohamed Salah, Mostafa Mohamed, Omar Marmoush.
Ghana
Goalkeeper: Richard Ofori.
Defenders: Gideon Mensah, Mohammed Salisu, Alexander Djiku, Denis Odoi.
Midfielders: Iddrisu Baba, Majeed Ashimeru, Jordan Ayew, André Ayew, Ernest Nuamah.
Forwards: Iñaki Williams.
Egypt vs Ghana tactical analysis
In spite of their disappointing result a few days ago, Egypt have actually enjoyed some fine form. They are currently on a six-match unbeaten run across all competitions, with four wins and two draws.
This is in contrast with Ghana, who have been going through a rough patch. The Black Stars suffered four losses in their last six games, with a draw and a win.
Egypt vs Ghana prediction
We've established that these teams are on opposite sides in terms of recent form. The Black Stars have struggled to find their best form of late, they've also lost three of their last four meetings with Egypt.
Taking everything into account, our Egypt vs Ghana prediction is a victory for the Pharaohs.
Where to watch Egypt vs Ghana live
Egyptians will be able to tune into beIN Sports 1 AFCON and beIN Sports Max 1 for live coverage of this game.
On the other hand, GTV Sports+, AfroSport TV and Supersport are amongst the TV options for fans who reside in Ghana.
