The Pharaohs are gearing up for a double-header against Malawi in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, with the two nations set to meet on November 13 and 17.

Egypt will host the first encounter before travelling to Lilongwe for the return fixture four days later.

Maher takes charge following the departure of Hossam Hassan, who parted ways with the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) on Saturday, Arham Online reported.

Hassan had signed a contract extension that was expected to keep him in the position until 2030 after guiding Egypt to the round of 16 at this year's World Cup. However, the EFA confirmed his departure following a review of recent events.

The new coach will be hoping to make an immediate impression as Egypt look to strengthen their position in the qualifying campaign and maintain their status as one of African football's dominant forces.

The seven-time AFCON champions have a remarkable history in the competition, having reached the final on 10 occasions. Their most successful period came between 2006 and 2010 when they won three consecutive titles under Hassan Shehata, a record that remains unmatched.

Salah is among the headline selections after enjoying an impressive spell in Turkey with Trabzonspor. The Egyptian captain has reportedly registered nine goals and three assists in 11 Super Lig appearances, while contributing 10 goals and five assists across all competitions.

One of his standout performances came against defending champions Galatasaray, where he scored a hat-trick and provided an assist in a convincing 4-0 victory.

Egypt squad

Goalkeepers: Mohamed El Shenawy, Mehdi Soltani, Mostafa Chobeir, Mohamed Alaa.

Defenders: Mahmoud El Wench, Hossam Abdel Majid, Rami Rabia, Mohamed Abdel Monem, Mahmoud Marei, Mohamed Hani, Karim Hafez, Ahmed Fathy, Tarek Alaa.

Midfielders: Marwan Attia, Mohanad Lasheen, Mahmoud Saber, Mohamed Shehata, Nasser Maher, Ibrahim Adel, Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet, Ahmed Sayed Zizo, Heitham Hassan.

Forwards: Mohamed Salah, Omar Marmoush, Hamza Abdel Karim, Mahmoud Memdouh.

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