Egypt

The winners of the last two African Nations Cup titles, Egypt are ranked second on the continent, behind only Cameroon. Victory over the Indomitable Lions in the Nations Cup final immediately qualified 2008 as a successful year for the Pharaohs.

Their 2008 record of 12 wins, three losses and two draws is a good record, but two of those losses – 4-0 to Sudan and a shock 1-0 defeat to Malawi - indicate that the Egyptians are not always consistent. Their other defeat was by a 2-0 margin against powerful Argentina.

Mido, who plays for English Premier League club Middlesbrough, is a talented and strong striker. He has plied his trade for many other clubs in many different countries, representing Zamalek (Egypt), Gent (Belgium), Celta Vigo (Spain), Olympique Marseille (France), AS Roma (Italy) and Tottenham Hotspor (England).

Mido has had his issues with the national team's management in the past, leading to a number of instances of accusations and counter-accusations between the player and management. These problems have led to him playing fewer matches than he might otherwise have played for the Pharaohs.

Nonetheless, he has a good striking rate of 19 goals in 48 internationals, and is a big man, capable of making things physically tough for defenders.

    (Copy source: SouthAfrica.info - original article: Brad Morgan. Creative Commons License)
 

Team Hottie for Egypt is

MIDO

(Image source)