27th January 2010
Algeria and Egypt renew their fierce north African rivalry for the first time since their controversial World Cup play-off clash in November.
Tensions are high ahead of the semi-final in Benguela, with both teams cancelling media activities and banning reporters from their training sessions.
"We're not thinking of revenge, we only want to win," said Egypt's Wael Gomaa.
Six-time champions Egypt are on course for their third African title in a row and remain the only unbeaten team in the competition, making them the stand-out favourites among the remaining four teams.
34-year-old defender Gomaa believes that winning the Nations Cup again would make up for the disappointment of missing out on South Africa.
"We are eager to reach the final and win the cup in order to compensate the fans after our failure to make the World Cup," he said.
Algeria have improved as the tournament has progressed, and captain Yazid Mansouri says they have Malawi to thank for that after being shocked by the Flames in their opening 3-0 group defeat.
"We lacked humility and paid the price," said the 31-year-old midfielder.
"Our team was challenged from the start of the Nations Cup.
"Luckily we reacted with pride and self-esteem. Once in a while a child needs a good knock to understand."
As for the renewing of rivalries with Egypt, Mansouri preferred to concentrate on matters on the pitch.
"The Algerian and Egyptian teams know each other very well so it is going to be a very competitive match and a single goal could settle the outcome," he said.
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