كتب : Hatem Maher
Despite being drawn in a relatively easy group that includes DR Congo, Djibouti and Malawi, Egypt are yet to ensure their progress to the next phase of the qualifiers.
The Pharaohs will even face the unthinkable fate of being eliminated if they suffer a defeat against DR Congo.
Egypt, DR Congo and Malawi are all tied at Group 12 summit with nine points but the latter have played an extra match while minnows Djibouti are rooted to the bottom without a single point.
The six-time African champions’ destiny will slip out of their hands if they lose against DR Congo, who face Malawi away from home in their last group game.
Although a draw would be favorable for Egypt, coach Hassan Shehata set his sights on claiming all three points.
“My team is looking for nothing but a win over Congo,” he told Al-Hayat TV.
“I don’t believe in setting two targets. Egypt just want to emerge winners from Sunday’s clash.”
Injury Problems
Egypt will have to do without midfielder Mohamed Shawky, who is considered one of the mainstays of the team’s squad.
The Middlesbrough man picked up a groin injury that ruled him out of the anticipated game.
Shawky’s club teammate Mido is also doubtful, having sustained a hamstring injury in training. The prolific striker is most likely to start on the bench.
Ismaili striker Mohamed Fadl has pulled out of the squad, leaving Shehata with few options upfront.
Ittihad Jeddah’s loan signing Emad Meteb will partner Wigan Athletics’ in-form striker Amr Zaki but there will be no recognized striker on the bench to act as a back-up.
On the other hand, DR Congo will miss star striker Lomana LuaLua who suffers from a thigh problem.