Egypt head coach Rui Vitoria said “tough opponents” lie in wait for his side at the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations, Cote d’Ivoire 2023 after they were drawn against Ghana, Cape Verde and Mozambique.

The Pharaohs, who have won a record seven AFCON titles, face a stern test in Group B as they bid to reclaim the crown in Cote d’Ivoire.

“I’m not surprised by the AFCON draw. I always think about balance and I believe our group has tough opponents,” Vitoria stated following Thursday’s draw.

Four-time champions Ghana pose the biggest threat according to the Portuguese manager.

“We have Ghana, a really good team that has always been a favourite to win the competition, and there are also Cape Verde and Mozambique who also have really talented players,” he said.

But Vitoria insists Egypt will be ready for the battle.

“All group games will be tough but we are prepared because we need to win such games to reach the final and win the title,” he added.

Egypt, who last lifted the trophy in 2010, will fancy their chances of progressing from a group containing teams they have dominated in recent AFCON meetings.

Yet as Vitoria identified, emerging top of Group B represents a real test if Egypt are to embark on another glorious AFCON campaign.

The draw took place in Abidjan on Thursday, three months before the continent’s showpiece event gets underway on 13 January until 11 February 2024.

Six venues across Ivory Coast will host matches, including two stadia in Abidjan along with newly constructed venues in Bouake, Korhogo, San Pedro and Yamoussoukro.

The top two in each of the six groups will progress along with the best four third-placed teams.

The final will take place at Abidjan’s 65,000 capacity Alassane Ouattara Stadium on 11 February as the new African champions are crowned.