AFCON 2019 Qualifier: New Gaffer Aguirre expects tough game against Niger

Egypt national team head coach Javier Aguirre expects Niger to give his side a tough test when they meet in their 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Alexandria.

Aguirre, who was appointed last August, admits the game will be difficult, but the team will be ready to give a good fight to remain in contention.

“I know it’s a tough game, and I want to start my job on a positive note,” said Aguirre in an interview with CAF Online.

“Qualifying to the Africa Cup of Nations is our first mission, and Niger game is our first step.”

The Pharaohs started their first training camp on Monday this week, which was the first training session under the Mexican coach, who replaced Argentine Hector Cuper, who left his position after the FIFA World Cup Russia 2018 tournament.

“It’s a new era and we’re starting everything over again. Expect to see more changes and you have to know we’re starting from the zero point. We have some experienced players, and now we’re adding new faces to the team, and this will continue,” concluded Aguirre.

The Pharaohs lost 1-0 to Tunisia away in their first game in their Group J campaign in June 2017.

As a result, Egypt are placed third on group standings without a single point while Niger are second as they held Swaziland to a goalless draw at home.

Egypt come into the game on the back of a poor 2018 World Cup campaign which saw them suffer three successive defeats to Uruguay, Saudi Arabia and hosts Russia.

Niger were last in competitive action in late May and early June, in friendlies against Central Africa Republic and Uganda, where they recorded 3-3 draw and a 2-1 win in both matches respectively.

Egypt and Niger have met three times in previous matches. Pharaohs have never lost to the Mena and the last encounter between the two sides was a friendly back in 2012 where the Egyptians won by a solitary goal.