Match Preview
With their spot in the 2025 AFCON tournament already secured, Egypt will look to finish their qualifying campaign on a high note as they host Botswana at the 30 June Stadium, Cairo on Tuesday, 19th November 2024. For the Zebras, this encounter is crucial, as they need at least a point to maintain control over their qualification fate.
Form Analysis
Egypt come into this match after a 1-1 draw against Cape Verde, a game in which they saw their perfect qualifying run halted. Despite the slip-up, Hossam Hassan’s side has been dominant, winning each of their first four qualifiers, including a 3-0 thrashing of Botswana earlier in the campaign. The Pharaohs have been a fortress at home, winning their last 12 competitive matches in Cairo. Even without key midfielder Mohamed Shehata due to injury, Egypt’s depth should be enough to maintain their strong record.
Botswana have shown resilience in this campaign but have struggled against stronger opponents. After losing their opening two matches against Mauritania and Egypt, the Zebras bounced back with crucial wins over Cape Verde, putting them in second place. However, they stumbled again with a 1-1 draw against Mauritania last time out, leaving their qualification hopes hanging by a thread. Botswana have not fared well against Egypt historically, losing their last four meetings without scoring a goal, and they will need a solid defensive effort to avoid another defeat.
Match Prediction Summary
- Bet 1: 1X2 Market – Egypt to Win @ 1.40
- Bet 2: Both Teams to Score – No @ 1.48
- Bet 3: Total Goals – Under 2.5 @ 1.80
- Bet 4: Correct Score – Egypt 2-0 Botswana @ 5.50
1X2 Market – Egypt to Win @ 1.40
Egypt are heavy favorites and rightly so. They have a strong home record and superior squad quality. While Botswana have shown improvement, their away form and struggles against Egypt make a home win the most likely outcome. The odds of 1.40 for Egypt to win provide decent value for a straightforward pick.
Both Teams to Score (BTTS) – No @ 1.48
Botswana have failed to score in their last four encounters against Egypt, and the Pharaohs’ defense has been solid, especially at home. Given Egypt’s organized backline and Botswana’s inconsistent attack, betting on BTTS – No at 1.48 is a strong option.
Total Goals – Under 2.5 @ 1.80
Despite Egypt’s attacking prowess, they might take a more cautious approach, having already secured qualification. Additionally, Botswana will likely focus on defense, aiming to secure the point they need to boost their AFCON hopes. This scenario sets up a low-scoring affair, making Under 2.5 goals a reasonable choice at 1.80.
Overall Analysis
Egypt are expected to dominate possession and create the better chances, especially at home. Botswana will likely adopt a defensive approach, aiming to secure the point they need to keep their qualification hopes alive. However, their poor record against Egypt and struggles away from home make it difficult to see them avoiding defeat. A disciplined, professional performance from the Pharaohs should see them close out the group stage with a win.
Note: Odds provided by Bet365 and are accurate at the time of writing. They are subject to change.