On Wednesday at the Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia, Sierra Leone and host country Egypt will square off during the CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Scheduled start time for the game is 21:00 local (18:00 GMT).

Sierra Leone coach Mohamed Lamin Kamara is expected to make a few changes to the starting lineup against Zambia, aiming for positive results against the host nation.

“We will make one or possibly two tactical adjustments for our next match against Egypt. Coach Kamara briefly explained that his side have been focused on converting goal chances, unlike in our first game.”

Without a doubt, the Shooting Stars will be looking for their first win after playing their opening match to a goalless draw. By contrast, Egypt, who won 1-0 against South Africa in their opening match on Sunday, will be hoping for back-to-back victories.

This is Sierra Leone’s first show in the tournament, and their first match ended in a 0-0 draw against Zambia.

Egypt has warned players about collective formation as the national under-20 team wraps up training in Ismailia under technical director Osama Nabiyeh. They are preparing for their second match in the African Cup of Nations against Sierra Leone.

Nabiyeh emphasized the need for adherence to technical instructions and encouraged a fighting spirit, which was key in their 1-0 victory over South Africa in the opening match. He noted that the tournament is tough, with all teams closely matched, and success will come from effort and perseverance.

Egypt’s last match against a team making its tournament debut was in the 2005 semi-finals against Benin, which also ended in a 1-1 draw before Egypt won on penalties.

Historically, Egypt has encountered tournament debutants ten times since 1979, resulting in three wins, four draws, and three losses.