Egypt goalkeeper, Essam El Hadary has acknowledged that the seven-time African champions did not end their seven-year exile from the Nations Cup with the title in mind, but are now ready to reclaim their crown against Cameroon.
After winning an unprecedented hat-trick of Nations Cups between 2006 and 2010, Egypt failed to qualify for the next three editions of the tournament before ousting Nigeria in qualifying to reach Gabon.
They started with uncertainty with a goalless stalemate against Mali; and were not convincing in victories over Uganda, Ghana, Morocco and Burkina Faso, on penalties, in the semi-finals.
While Egypt have more experience than their Cameroonian opponents, coach Hector Cuper has acknowledged that his side must not be considered favorites ahead of the showdown in Libreville.
