Egypt aim for the unprecedented achievement of winning three African Cup of Nations titles on the trot when they take on World Cup finalists Ghana on Sunday. The holders are boosted by their emphatic semi-final victory over bitter rivals Algeria, a triumph that has been regarded as an independent feat by Egyptian fans. So far in Angola, Egypt have outclassed three teams who will be in South Africa 2010 and are considered favorites to make it four. "Regardless of who we met, we showed that we are the best in Africa. We won the last two competitions and have again excelled here," said Egypt captain Ahmed Hassan. "We should return home with the trophy now and we will do our best to achieve that aim.'' This time Hassan Shehata's men face the Black Stars, who are second-best in Africa in terms of the number of continental titles. However, Ghana's last CAN title came 28 years ago in Libya, before their record of four titles was smashed by the Pharaohs.
It will be an interesting contest between Milovan Rajevac's side, who haven't conceded in three games, and the mighty Egyptian attack boasting a record of 14 goals in five matches. Team News Egypt striker Emad Meteb is almost certain to miss out after sustaining a hamstring tear against Algeria, but key defender Wael Gomaa should shrug off a minor strain. Center-half Mahmoud Fathallah is suspended, so Ahmed Fathi is expected to step in at the heart of defense, while Hossam Ghaly is likely to start in midfield. Supersub Mohamed Nagi 'Geddo' is enjoying a memorable campaign in Angola and is likely to start on the bench for the sixth game running. On the other hand, Ghana keeper Richard Kingson has been struggling with a groin injury recently, but could make the starting line-up. Agyeman Opoku and Hans Sarpei were substituted in the win against Nigeria and are both doubtful.