Saudi Arabia v Egypt - Preview and possible lineups

BeSoccer 6 years ago 1.6k |

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Salah could start again for Egypt, having missed the opening game. AFP

We take a look ahead to Monday's Group A clash between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, at the Volgograd Arena.

Saudi Arabia:

The 'Green Falcons' received an added blow during their loss to Uruguay, as midfielder Taisir Al-Jassim sustained a thigh injury, putting him out of contention for the final group game. He is likely to be replaced by Yahya Al-Shehri, with Mohamed Kanno also a contender to be handed a start.

Ali Al-Bulaihi, Omar Hawsawi and Mansoor Al-Harbi are all doubts through their respective injuries.

Egypt:

There has been a lot of talk about 45-year-old goalkeeper Essam El Hadary in the build-up to the game. With Egypt already eliminated, some have called for him to start, in order to set a record as the oldest player ever to appear at a World Cup. However, although it is quite likely he will feature, it may have to be from the bench, not the start.

The other talking point is Mo Salah. Having returned for Egypt's second game, there were reports that his club side Liverpool had put pressure on his country not to play him. This has been denied by Egypt, though, meaning he looks set to play once again.

Saudi Arabia coach Juan Antonio Pizzi:

"We are fully prepared for the match," Pizzi said, speaking ahead of the tie. "We're confident of our capacity, we lived the experience of the two previous matches, and we must be aware of our goals before entering the match."

"The match against Egypt will be difficult, all the teams wish to win in the tournament. We respect the opposing team, and we both know each other well, it is most important that after the match we look presentable for everyone."

Egypt coach Hector Cuper:

Discussing selection issues, Cuper wasn't giving anything away."The manager needs a reason to make changes," he said. "We are not going to change our style."

He is keen for Egypt to pick up a win, despite the fact that there is nothing at stake. “For us, this is an important match," he said. "Particularly because we want to end this participation in the World Cup on a high note, with a good result. We must bow out in style."

Did you know?

Egypt's last World Cup goal from open play was scored by Abdulrahman Fawzi back on 27 May 1934.

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