AFCON 2025: Egypt vs Ivory Coast preview, prediction, team news, and head-to-head

This match brings together Africa’s most decorated team and the current titleholders as both sides battle each other for a spot in the semi-finals of the tournament.

Egypt heads into this quarter-final after a tough battle against the Benin Republic in the Round of 16. The Pharaohs had to dig deep, needing extra time to win 3-1, with key goals from Mohamed Salah and Yasser Ibrahim keeping their dream of an eighth AFCON title alive.

Hossam Hassan's side may not always play the flashiest football, but they know how to grind out results, now unbeaten in their last 14 matches against African teams.

Ivory Coast, on the other hand, is looking sharp and dangerous. The defending champions made light work of Burkina Faso in the last round, winning 3-0 in style. With stars like Yan Diomande and Amad Diallo in top form, Emerse Faé has his team firing on all cylinders.

The Elephants have scored three or more goals in four of their last six games and are full of confidence as they aim to become the first nation since Egypt in 2010 to win back-to-back AFCON titles.

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Egypt has long held the upper hand in this rivalry, and that history could weigh in their favor. The Pharaohs have won three of the last five matches against the Ivory Coast (D1, L1). Still, recent games show that the Elephants are closing the gap.

Hossam Hassan is expected to stick to his usual squad and formation as all players in his starting eleven are available to feature in this match. However, the coach will be left without Mohamed Hamdi, who has been ruled out due to injury.

Liverpool star Mohammed Salah and Man City forward Omar Marmous are expected to lead the attacking line of the Pharaohs.

Meanwhile, the Ivory Coast manager will be saddled with the responsibility of finding a suitable alternative for Christ Inao Oulai, who will be unavailable due to suspension after picking up multiple yellow cards.

With Manchester United’s Amad Diallo fit and available for this fixture, the Elephants will be able to trouble the defence of the North African side.

Egypt (4-3-3): El Shenawy; Fatouh, Rabia, Ibrahim, Hany; Adel, Fathy, Attia; Ashour, Marmoush, Salah

Ivory Coast (4-3-3): Y. Fofana; Doue, Kossounou, Ndicka, Konan; Kessie, Sangare, S. Fofana; Diallo, Guessand, Diomande

Egypt vs Ivory Coast  prediction & betting tips

While Egypt can boast of a historical advantage over the Elephants, Ivory Coast's recent successes in previous AFCON tournaments make them a very formidable contender for the continental title.

The West African team have what it takes to edge out their North African counterparts, and you can stake on Ivory Coast to qualify at LiveScore Bet. 

• Bet on Ivory Coast to win or draw

• Over 1.5 goals

• Team to qualify - Ivory Coast