The Egyptian Football Association has performed a ritual sacrifice of a cow in hopes of boosting the national team’s luck at the Africa Cup of Nations.

According to team spokesman Mohamed Morad, the federation slaughtered the cow and distributed its meat to those in need in Cairo the day before. As Egypt, still without a victory, prepares for the round of 16 against Congo DR in San Pedro on Sunday, the team faced a one-hour delay in their flight from Abidjan to San Pedro on Friday.

Injuries have plagued Egypt’s campaign, with star Mohamed Salah sidelined due to a hamstring injury in the second group game and goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy suffering a dislocated shoulder in the third and final group match. Emam Ashour underwent overnight hospitalization on Wednesday for concussion treatment following a head injury in training. Fortunately, he has since rejoined the squad.