Egypt Under-23 national team coach Hossam El-Badry is confident as they are about to launch their 2015 Africa U-23 Cup of Nations campaign.

The former Al Ahly manager is eyeing a top three finish at the continental tournament, which will take place in Senegal between 28 November and 12 December, to see his side qualify for the 2016 Summer Olympics.

Drawn in a very tough Group B alongside Algeria, Mali and Nigeria, the Egyptians are, however, determined to progress in their bid for a Rio ticket.

“I have a target and it is to qualify for the Olympics, no matter what the names of the opponents are,” El-Badry told Algerian media El Shorouk.

“Qualifying for the U-23 Africa Cup of Nations means that your team is among the best eight teams on the continent, thus there is no room for an easy game.

“Algeria and Nigeria are continental heavyweights but I think our game against Mali will be very tough. Mali has won the Africa youth championship and they have very good players on their squad. Our game against them will be very tough.

“But we don’t fear any opponent as we look to win all our games in the continental tournament to reach the Olympics.”

Egypt will battle Algeria in their Group B opener on 29 November, before taking on Nigeria on  2 Decemberand Mali three days later.