South Sudan vs Egypt - Africa Cup of Nations - Qualification

A fascinating Africa Cup of Nations - Qualification chapter awaits on September 29, 2026 when South Sudan take on Egypt at the home ground — two sides with plenty to play for and everything to prove. The spectacle was once again on show ahead of Nice’s Europa League clash with AS Roma on Thursday, but what was supposed to be a display of power and pride quickly turned into a far more comical scene.

There is plenty riding on this Africa Cup of Nations - Qualification encounter for South Sudan and Egypt alike, and neither will want to leave the home ground empty-handed. South Sudan's recent form is difficult to quantify, but the occasion itself should bring the best out of them. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. Carrick spoke to the media before his captain was seen limping, but did explain why he didn't take him off despite the commanding position his team were in.

The touchline duel between the two managers adds another layer of intrigue, with both likely to tweak their setups in search of a decisive edge. The Germany club were said to be looking for an out-and-out striker to allow Harry Kane to play a deeper role, and made an approach for Sesko in 2024.

Neither side is short on individuals capable of tilting the balance, and the duel between the two squads' chief creators could prove particularly pivotal. The wide areas will be a key battleground, with full-backs and wingers on either side capable of swinging the contest one way or the other. Newcastle United's Lewis Hall is on the club's radar as they look to plan for life without Luke Shaw, while Shakhtar Donetsk's Kaua Elias has reportedly been scouted as a centre-forward alternative.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. With the sides so closely matched, a 1-1 stalemate looks the most likely way this one ends. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the Africa Cup of Nations - Qualification standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. Joe Gomez is expected to miss the start of Liverpool's Premier League campaign through injury - but it is not likely to impact the Reds' transfer plans.