History will repeat itself, says Egypt

Champions Egypt are confident of pulling off a second African Nations Cup win over Cameroon when they meet in Sunday's final, assistant coach Shawky Gharib said.

Egypt beat Cameroon 4-2 in their first round group match and earned a chance for a second match with the Indomitable Lions by stunning Ivory Coast 4-1 in Thursday's semi-final.

Gharib said his side would repeat their 2006 effort when they twice beat Ivory Coast, 3-1 in the group stages and on penalties in the final.

''Now, we will win the final,'' said Gharib. ''It's the same as in 2006, when we played Ivory Coast in the final and we were also in the same group.

''This time, Egypt and Cameroon were in the same group.

''Today, our players played over their capabilities.

''I tell you, Egypt and Cameroon have played more matches than I can remember. Cameroon have good players and some famous players and we respect them. But I want to take the cup back to Egypt; it's a chance for us to make history.'' Gharib said Ahmed Fathi's opening goal was a crucial blow to the Ivory Coast.

''When you score first, you have more chances to open up their defence,'' he said.

''We played with our minds.''