Cape Verde host Egypt in their penultimate match of the AFCON qualifiers, with much more at stake for the Blue Sharks. While Egypt have already secured their place in the finals, Cape Verde are fighting to keep their hopes alive after a dismal October showing against Botswana, where they suffered back-to-back 1-0 defeats. Sitting three points behind the second-place team, Cape Verde need a positive result to maintain their chances of qualifying.
Cape Verde’s recent performances at home have been solid, boasting four wins to nil in their last five matches in Praia. Despite their recent slip-ups, they have shown strong form against higher-ranked teams, particularly in home fixtures where they tend to be more resilient.
Egypt, on the other hand, have cruised through the qualifiers, winning their first four matches without conceding a single goal. Hossam Hassan’s men have already booked their place in the finals, allowing them the luxury to rotate their squad for this fixture. With Mohamed Salah absent and a potential second-string lineup expected, the Pharaohs may not be at full strength, giving Cape Verde a better chance to capitalize.
Match Prediction Summary
- Bet 1: Double Chance – 1X (Cape Verde or Draw) @ 1.50
- Bet 2: Both Teams to Score – Yes @ 2.08
- Bet 3: Total Goals – Under 2.5 @ 1.74
1X2 Market – Double Chance: 1X (Cape Verde or Draw) @ 1.50
Given Cape Verde’s impressive home record and Egypt’s likely rotation, backing the hosts to at least avoid defeat seems a sensible bet. The Blue Sharks have been strong at home, while Egypt may not be as motivated, having already qualified. The odds of 1X at 1.50 offer a safer option considering the circumstances.
Both Teams to Score (BTTS) – Yes @ 2.08
Although Egypt have been defensively solid, Cape Verde’s desperation and home support could see them break the deadlock. The last encounter between these teams ended in a 2-2 draw, and with Egypt possibly fielding a weaker defense, BTTS – Yes at 2.08 is worth considering.
Total Goals – Under 2.5 @ 1.74
Despite the potential for goals, both teams have shown a tendency towards low-scoring matches in the qualifiers. Cape Verde’s recent home games have been tight, with three of their last four ending with under 2.5 goals. Egypt’s defensive stability, even with a rotated squad, suggests another low-scoring affair. The under 2.5 goals market at 1.74 offers value for bettors expecting a cautious match.
Overall Analysis
Cape Verde have everything to play for, while Egypt, having already qualified, may not field their strongest XI. The Blue Sharks’ home form and Egypt’s likely rotation make this a closer contest than the odds suggest. Backing Cape Verde to get at least a draw, combined with a low-scoring affair, appears to be the best approach.
Note: Odds provided by 1xbet and are accurate at the time of writing. They are subject to change.