The experience of Roma winger Mohamed Salah gave Egypt the edge against Uganda, according to Milutin Sredojevic.
Neither side could find a way through as Mali and Egypt drew a blank in Group D and Essam El-Hadary sealed a place in AFCON history.
Injury to Ahmed El-Shenawy meant Egypt's 44-year-old goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary became the oldest player in AFCON history versus Mali.
Mohamed Salah will be key to Egypt's hopes as they look to make it four Africa Cup of Nations titles in as many appearances at the event.