Egypt only need a point to secure their place in the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations.
Reigning champions should progress, while Zambia still have hope
Egypt only need a point to secure their place in the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations.
Having claimed maximum points from their opening two games against Cameroon and Sudan a draw would now be enough to see the reigning champions progress to the last eight.
There has never been a draw between the two sides though in seven previous meetings and the Pharaohs have the superior record having emerged victorious on five occasions.
Zambia will still have aspirations of reaching the knock-out stages, but know that not even a win will guarantee their progress and they may end up relying on Sudan to take points off Cameroon in the other Group C game in order to make the quarter-finals.
Duo to be rested
After suffering knocks in Egypt's last game, against Sudan, Ahmed Fathi and Hosni Abdel Rabo are doubts going into the encounter.
Fathi is suffering from knee pain, while Hosni suffered a muscle injury and both might be rested for this clash to get them fit for the next round of games.
All other players are available to manager Hassan Shehata, with the likes of Hassan Mostafa and Ahmed Hassan pushing for a place in the starting line up.
Problems solved
After the problems of players striking and not playing in their previous match against Cameroon due to requests for extra bonuses following the 3-0 victory over Sudan, Zambia manager Patrick Phiri should once again have all his squad available for this important encounter.
The strike partnership of James Chamanga and Jacob Mulenga should continue up front and the energetic Felix Katongo is likely to be a key figure in midfield.
