Moawad is hoping that the African champions will evoke memories of the CAN 2006 final, when they beat the Elephants on penalties to clinch the title o home soil.

"We came here to defend our title and we're on the right path," said Moawad.

"Ivory Coast have also come to win the title and they want revenge but we'll prepare well for it," he added.

Egypt needed a hard-fought 2-1 win over Angola to reach the semis, while Ivory Coast rout Guinea 5-0 to secure a last four spot.

Didier Drogba and Co. proved to be the most lethal in the competition so far, scoring 13 goals in four games.