The road is open for Egypt to progress in the bid for the 2019 African Cup of Nations after the sudden withdrawal of Morocco.
Egyptian Sports Minister Ashraf Subhi said his country was ready to host the continental championship in June.
Sobhi said in a televised statement that Egypt respected Morocco's desire to bid for the tournament, noting that one step separates Egypt from resolving its decision and announce its candidacy to host this edition of the tournament.
He stressed that Egypt is capable of organizing such a tournament, after its recent success in hosting a number of sporting events.
All expectations were for the forthcoming organization of African nations to Morocco, but the Moroccan government confirmed on Wednesday that it did not intend to submit a bid to host the tournament.
The tournament was withdrawn earlier in Cameroon because of the late completion of stadiums and facilities for the tournament, which will see the first participation of 24 teams.