The Pharaohs of Egypt coach Hector Cuper is optimistic about his side’s chances in their Africa Cup of Nations 2019 qualifier in Rhades against Tunisia on Sunday.

“The preparations have gone according to expectations. While I could have done with more time, I believe the hours we have put in this past week should suffice,” said Cuper.

The Pharaohs mentor says he is aware of the magnitude of Sunday’s game in which both sides need a good result to kick start their 2019 AFCON campaign.

“We suffered in our last friendly against Tunisia. Even though we won the match we lost control of the game sometimes,” the coach told ON Sport TV channel.

“They now have a good coach and we don’t know if he will change the team’s strategy in his first game with them or not.”added Cuper.

The coach said he already had his starting lineup in his head but would confirm it once the team has had their final training session at the match venue on Friday.

He, however, insisted the mental approach as his team maybe be without key player in the name of Mahmoud Hassan Trezegut.

“I felt sad for his injury, but we’ll try and manage.”said Cuper.

Both teams have been drawn in Group J, alongside Niger and Swaziland.