Egypt aims for group summit against Gabon

The Pharaohs take on Gabon on Saturday in the final group stage game of the U-23 AFCON held in Morocco. 

The Egyptians need a draw to confirm their position in the semi-finals of the competition but the team's coach, Rogerio Micale, expressed his team's determination to claim the top spot in the group.

"Our focus is on winning to claim the group's summit. Hence, this match holds tremendous importance for us, and the players are fully aware of its significance." Micale stated in the pre-game press conference. 

Egypt and Niger share the top of the group, with four points each, while Mali comes third in the group with three points. Meanwhile, Gabon has suffered two defeats against Mali and Niger that sent them out of the tournament. 

Micale added "We must maintain our focus, spirit, and concentration. Gabon is a formidable opponent, and we hold them in the highest regard." 

The team that finishes at the top of the group will avoid facing the hosts, Morocco, after they reached the semi-finals with a solid performance in the group stage, winning all three matches. 

The top three teams in the competition will secure a direct ticket to the Olympics, while the fourth-placed team will play in the AFC–CAF play-off.