All eyes on Salah as Egypt prepare to take on Zimbabwe in stifling heat

Egypt star Mohamed Salah taking instructions in training [AFP]

All eyes will be on Mohamed Salah later Friday as the Egypt star looks to help the Africa Cup of Nations hosts launch their bid for a record-extending eighth title in style against Zimbabwe in the opening match of a tournament expanded to 24 teams for the first time.

After avenging last year's Champions League anguish with Liverpool three weeks ago, Salah is now on a mission for redemption with the Pharaohs after injury wrecked his World Cup campaign in Russia -- ruining Egypt's return to the global showpiece after a 28-year absence.