2018 FIFA World Cup – Egypt vs Uruguay Preview
AT A GLANCE
When? Friday 15th June, 13:00
Where? Central Stadium
What channel is it on? BBC1
Where can I stream the match? BBC license holders can stream the match online via BBC iPlayer
Are tickets still available? https://www.ticketbisevents.com/en/group-a-russia-saudi-arabia-egypt-uruguay-tickets/ca5910
THE TEAM NEWS
EGYPT
- Egypt have set themselves the lofty ambitions of making it through the group stage but Hector Cuper's men lack experience at this level. Their preparations have not been great with form in the friendlies being patchy to say the least.
- All the focus and question marks have surrounded the availability of star man Mohamed Salah and they may deem him fit enough only for the bench here. The Liverpool star continues to recover from his shoulder injury and they will make a late decision on whether they will risk him.
- Veteran keeper Essam El Hadary could become the oldest player to play in the World Cup at the age of 45 if selected during the tournament while they have a slight injury doubt over Warda for this game also.
Predicted line-up (4-3-3):
Ekramy
Fathy, Gabr, Hegazi, Samir
Said, Elneny, El Mohamady
Trezeguet, Mohsen, Sobhi
Unavailable: None
Doubtful: Salah, Warda
URUGUAY
- Uruguay will be looking to make a fast start to this competition and as one of the first teams to arrive in Russia, they have been able to prepare without any real issues within the camp.
- Oscar Tabarez has a fully fit squad at his disposal as all his players came through the friendlies unscathed so he will likely line-up with a front three of De Arrascaeta, Cavani and Suarez and hope they can terrorise this Egyptian defence.
- There are a couple of question marks over his selection at right-back between Caceres and Varela, and in midfield on the right side of the three, but the core of his side led by the outstanding Atletico duo at the back, is settled and in fine form.
Predicted line-up (4-3-1-2):
Muslera
Caceres, Godin, Gimenez, Silva
Torreira, Bentancur, Vecino
De Arrascaeta
Cavani, Suarez
Unavailable: None
Doubtful: None
THE PREDICTION
Egypt are pinning their hopes on Salah being fit for this game but it may be wise to leave him out against this fierce and physical Uruguayan defence. The discussion over his availability has clouded Egypt’s preparations in many ways and it will be interesting to see if his presence either boosts the team, or his absence knocks the confidence of his team-mates. Uruguay are a strong outfit that are tough and energetic, but possess attacking quality in Cavani and Suarez to cause any team in the world problems. They should have too much for Egypt here and expect the South Americans to open with a victory.
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