LUANDA: Egypt will have to battle past five World Cup-bound teams if they are to win an unprecedented third successive African Nations Cup in Angola this month.

Egypt, who have won the past two editions, in 2006 and 2008, and a record six overall, will also be seeking to make up for the disappointment of failing to qualify for the 2010 World Cup.

Algeria beat them in a bruising playoff in November and will use the Jan 10-31 tournament in Angola to prepare their side for a tough assignment in South Africa in mid-year.