The Pharaohs have repeatedly been hailed as the strongest African team, having unprecedentedly won the Nations Cup three times on the trot in 2006, 2008 and 2010.

"Egypt has come ahead in leaps and bounds as both a team and a football nation over the last 10 years," Neill said.

"It's going to be a tough game, they are the reigning African champions, and from what I have seen of Egypt they are physical, they're very well organized, play with a lot of passion and are technically very good.

"It's why their players are being snapped up by the bigger leagues in Europe.

"They're not intimidated by anyone and we expect a tough game from them.

"They're similar to Australia in that they're one of the strongest teams in their region and they have also always tried to prove themselves. People see them as a real threat."

Despite their continental glory, Egypt were heavily criticized for below-par performances in their last couple of Nations Cup qualifiers this year.

Hassan Shehata's side drew with minnows Sierra Leone 1-1 before losing 1-0 in Niger. They are now at the bottom of Group G with a single point.