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

Egypt are the most decorated team in the history of the Africa Cup of Nations, holding a record seven titles and making their 27th appearance at the tournament.

The Pharaohs have shown incredible consistency in recent years, reaching the final in five of their last seven entries, a legacy highlighted by their historic "three-peat" of titles between 2006 and 2010.

In contrast, Zimbabwe are preparing for their sixth AFCON appearance, returning to the continental stage after being absent from the 2023 edition.

Seven-time AFCON winners Egypt breezed through qualifying unbeaten and are heavy favourites in this opener.

Manager Hossam Hassan faces immense pressure to secure their first title since 2010, following the sacking of Rui Vitoria after a disappointing 2023 exit.

While their build-up was shaky, a recent 2-1 win over Nigeria provided a timely boost, as they look to lift Africa's ultimate crown again.

Zimbabwe return for their sixth appearance after a FIFA suspension kept them out of the 2023 edition. The Warriors squeezed through qualifying but have struggled for consistency, winning just twice in 17 matches.

Following Michael Nees’ dismissal in November, new boss Mario Marinica now leads the tournament’s underdogs into a difficult opener.

Egypt and Zimbabwe have met 14 times in history, with Egypt dominating the fixture. The Pharaohs have won eight matches, drawn four, and lost just once — a 2–1 defeat in Harare during 1994 FIFA World Cup qualifying.

Egypt are unbeaten in their last 10 matches against Zimbabwe (W7 D3) and have scored at least two goals in five of their last six meetings.

Neither side appear to have any fresh injury concerns ahead of this opening group game. However, Zimbabwe are closely monitoring Wolves midfielder and vice-captain Marshall Munetsi, due to fatigue and fitness concerns.

Egypt: El Shenawy, Hegazi, Mohamed Abdelmonem, Omar Kamal, Mohamed Hamdy, Mohamed Elneny, Trezeguet, Emam Ashour, Mohamed Salah, Omar Marmoush, Ramadan Sobhi

Zimbabwe: Talbert Shumba, Alec Mudimu, Teenage Hadebe, Devine Lunga, Godknows Murwira, Marvelous Nakamba, Marshall Munetsi, Tafadzwa Rusike: Knowledge Musona, Prince Dube, David Moyo

Egypt are massive favourites here, and any attack featuring Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush is one to be feared. We are backing the Pharaohs to win comfortably.

• Egypt win & Over 1.5 goals

• Salah to score anytime

Remember to visit LiveScore Bet to enjoy value for money and take advantage of the best odds on the market.