Saturday, February 9, 2008

Egpty:We will retain the cup

Egyptian assistant coach Shawki Gharib says the Pharaohs are confident of extending their Africa Cup of Nations winning record to six when they face Cameroon on Sunday in Accra.
Egyptian assistant coach Shawki Gharib says the Pharaohs are confident of extending their Africa Cup of Nations winning record to six when they face Cameroon on Sunday in Accra.
The champions stunned tournament favourites Ivory Coast with a 4-1 semifinal win and Shawki is confident that history will repeat itself.

“Now, we will win the final,” said Gharib. “It's the same as in 2006, when we played Ivory Coast in the final and we were also in the same group.

“Now, we will win the final,” said Gharib. “It's the same as in 2006, when we played Ivory Coast in the final and we were also in the same group.“This time, Egypt and Cameroon were also in the same group.”

He praised the Egypt players for playing above themselves.

“Today, our players played over their capabilities. I tell you, Egypt and Cameroon have played more matches than I can remember. Cameroon has good players and some famous players and we respect them.

“But I want to take the Cup back to Egypt; it’s a chance for us to make history.”

Gharib said Ahmed Fathi’s opening goal was a crucial blow to the Ivory Coast.

“When you score first, you have more chances to open up their defence,” he said. “We played with our minds.”

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