Russia look to continue impressive start against Egypt in Group A
The Pharaohs are looking to get back to the winning ways after a disappointing first game start against Uruguay.
Russia and Egypt could not arrive in Saint Petersburg with more disparate emotions following their opening games at the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia. The hosts dealt with the pressure of the curtain-raiser in staggering style, while Egypt saw their long-awaited return start off with last-gasp, gut-wrenching defeat.
Even the most passionate of Russia fans would have scoffed at serious predictions of a 5-0 win over Saudi Arabia, but that victory, punctuated by a couple of fine Denis Cheryshev goals, has transformed expectations. Three points could even be enough to seal a Round of 16 spot.
Egypt, on the other hand, have no time to waste. Thankfully for them, Mohamed Salah looks set to return from injury. As well as the obvious attacking threat he will provide, having been a dominating presence in England this season, the return of his talismanic stature with the Pharaohs will no doubt lift their spirits after the late goal conceded against Uruguay.
Team Reporter Analysis
Igor Borunov (Russia)
Russia is over the moon after the magnificent and quite unexpected goal shower in the opening game. But the players have not rested on their laurels. Everyone in the Russian camp has put the result against Saudi Arabia behind them and Egypt is a totally different story. With or without Mohamed Salah on the pitch, the hosts are determined to fight hard and get another victory to put at least one foot in the next round, if not two.
ALSO READ
Poland and Senegal keen to prove World Cup credentials in opening clash
Confident Colombia take on Asian powerhouse Japan in Group H opener
How Iceland's inspirational story can be a valuable lesson for India
Belal Mostafa (Egypt)
The Uruguay result has imposed a clear state of mind on the Egyptian team: beating Russia is the only option. As Hector Cuper moved towards completing his preparations for the match, with Mohamed Salah's readiness alongside some brilliant performances in their final training session before leaving for Saint Petersburg, he has a selection headache on his hands. After the hosts’ opening result, and with home support, the pressure will be on the Pharaohs, but they can overcome it.
Did you know?
Friday was the first time that two players have scored their first goals for the national team in the Opening Match of a World Cup. Yury Gazinsky struck before Denis Cheryshev went one better, scoring his first two for Russia.
Possible Line-ups
[KH_RELATED_NEWS title="Related News"][/KH_RELATED_NEWS]Russia: Igor Akinfeev; Mario Fernandes, Ilya Kutepov, Sergei Ignashevich, Yuri Zhirkov; Roman Zobnin, Yury Gazinsky, Daler Kuziaev; Aleksandr Golovin, Denis Cheryshev; Fedor Smolov
Egypt: Mohammed El Shenawy, Ali Gabr, Ahmed Hegazy, Ahmed Fathi, Mohammed Abdelshafy; Tarek Hamed, Mohammed El Neny, Mahmoud Trezeguet, Abdullah Al Said; Mohammed Salah, Marwan Mohsen
Latest News
- Swami Vivekananda U-20 NFC: Manipur qualify for quarter-finals with draw against Odisha
- Cole Palmer returns to Chelsea training after missing midweek game against Arsenal
- I-League 2023-24: Gyamar Nikum named Best Emerging Player
- New England vs Inter Miami Predicted lineup, betting tips, odds, injury news, H2H, telecast
- Canada national football team contact Ole Gunnar Solskjaer & Jesse Marsch over vacant manager job
Trending Articles
- Scouting Report: Who is East Bengal's bright talent Sayan Banerjee?
- Which clubs have won ISL Trophy in the past?
- Anju Turambekar appointed AFC Youth Panel Member to represent Singapore
- Hyderabad FC handed 'another' FIFA transfer ban
- Jahouh's domination and other talking points from Odisha FC's win over Mohun Bagan
Editor Picks
- All-Indian scorecard and other talking points from ISL semi-final between FC Goa and Mumbai City FC
- Which clubs have won ISL Trophy in the past?
- Anju Turambekar appointed AFC Youth Panel Member to represent Singapore
- Top five players with most away goals in UEFA Champions League knockout phase
- Hyderabad FC handed 'another' FIFA transfer ban