With Egypt and Guinea already qualified for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, the National Elephants are aiming to top Group D in their final Afcon qualifier when they take on Malawi at the Bingu National Stadium on Saturday.

Kick-off is at 3:00pm (SA, GMT+2)

Effectively seen as a dead rubber match for the host nation, Malawi head into the game against Guinea with four points after five matches played in Group D.

In third place, Malawi are winless in their last four qualifying matches which included back-to-back defeats against Egypt.

Also, Malawi faced Guinea in their second qualifier back in June last year, as Naby Keita’s solitary strike in the 90th minute separated the two sides at Stade General Lansana Conte.

Speaking ahead of the tie, Malawi coach Patrick Mabedi explained his reasons for excluding star player Gabadino Mhango from his squad and mentioned that he spoke to the attacker before making his decision.

“He has just found a new team, and I thought it wise to allow him to adapt and settle down to avoid losing his place in the first eleven of his new team,” Mabedi said.

“I spoke to him at length, and he also agreed to my decision so that he should be ready when joining us in the future,” he explained.

Guinea on the other hand, have the opportunity to topple Egypt at the top of Group D and trail the African giants by three points in second place.

As it stands, Egypt boast the superior goal difference in first place (+6), which could mean that Guinea (+2) would have to win by a healthy goal margin provided Egypt fire blanks in their tie against Ethiopia.

Prior to the Syli National Elephants 2-1 defeat against Egypt in their most recent Afcon qualifier, Guinea went on a three-match winning streak, which ultimately secured their spot in next year’s tournament.

Reflecting on the game against Malawi, Guinea star Issiaga Sylla lauded his team’s preparation behind the scenes and will use the game to prepare themselves for the upcoming tournament.

“The morale within the team is excellent, and the group is ready for this meeting,” Sylla said.

“Even if we are already qualified, this match is of great importance for the honour of Guinean football. In addition, it serves as preparation for the start of the African Cup of Nations.”