Can Cranes stun Egypt again?

2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifier

Egypt v Uganda (8.45pm)

Uganda Cranes have never won a game in Alexandria. They have also never qualified for the World Cup.

Unlike, the Egyptian Pharaohs, who are seven-time Africa Cup of Nations champions, the Cranes have none. Their best performance was making the final in 1978 where they lost to hosts Ghana 2-0 in Accra.

However, all that will count for nothing when the Cranes line up against the much-fancied Egyptians in today's top of the table World Cup qualifier at the Borg El Arab Stadium.

Uganda leads Group E with seven points after last Thursday's surprise 1-0 win over the Pharaohs at Mandela stadium Namboole. The Pharaohs, who lie second with six points, are talking big and have promised a ‘massacre' in the 80,000 capacity Borg El Arab stadium in Alexandria. You would anticipate matches of this magnitude to be hosted at the giant Cairo stadium but Egyptian Football Federation opted for the 218km away from the capital stadium because of its modern turf that suits Egypt's free-flowing and passing style of the play.

On paper, Egypt are fancied to take the three points because of the star-studded team that includes the likes of Mohamed Salah (Liverpool), Mohamed Elneny (Arsenal) and veteran goalkeeper Essam El Hadary.

State Minister for Sports, Charles Bakkabulindi, addresses Cranes and Silverbacks players in Alexandria.

But considering that Cranes have defied the odds and shocked a number of African giants, even these stars will shake at the prospect of facing the mighty Cranes. 

Past meetings

The Pharaohs have a very good record against the Cranes having registered nine wins in 10 meetings. Egypt beat Cranes 3-0 during their last clash in Cairo on October 2, 2013.

The Egyptians have also never lost a World Cup qualifier at home since their 2-1 defeat to Ivory Coast on June 26, 2004.

But Cranes can still pick positives from Zambia's last visit that saw the Chipolopolo drawing 1-1 with the Egyptians in Cairo on March 9, 2009 in the same competition. 

Home fans demand a massacre

In the build-up to the game, the pressure has been mounting on the Pharaohs since their defeat in Kampala. The fans are demanding a 5-0 massacre.

"We need five goals in order to forgive them for the shame they brought on our beautiful nation last week," said Hashem Sherif,  a shop attendant in Alexandria.

Omar Saleh, a mechanic added that, "We want a resounding victory. At least 4-0! Less than a three goal margin both coach Hector Cuper and FA president Hany Aboride have to go."

The Egyptians are unhappy with Cuper's defensive tactics. 

Miya is the most feared

Although Emmanuel Okwi scored the all-important goal at Namboole stadium, the locals are wary of Farouk Miya.

"That striker with our Arabic name Farouk is so deadly. His right foot is very lethal," stated Bekhit Sheriff, a beverage dealer in Alexandria. His colleague who preferred anonymity added, "That one is war. But their goalkeeper (Denis Onyango) is also hard to score against."  

Uganda's chances to Russia

With three games remaining, Cranes have a big chance of making history and qualifying for the World Cup for the first time.

If Cranes can at least hold out for a draw today, they will remain ahead of the Pharaohs by one point and will need to win their last two games with Ghana (home) and Congo Brazzaville (away). That would earn Uganda 14 points and leave Egypt at 13 if they also win their last two encounters with Congo Brazzaville (home) and Ghana (away).

If Egypt beats Uganda, the Pharaohs will move to nine points and could seal qualification with a win against Congo Brazzaville. 

Cranes coach Basena says

"We respect Egypt because they are really strong. We know how the big crowd (80000 fans) can win a match but the good thing is that 11 men will line up against 11.

"The atmosphere in stadium will be intimidating but my prayers are for our players not to crack. The good this is the likes of Denis Onyango, Emma Okwi and Murushid Juuko are used to such atmospheres week in; week out at Mamelodi Sundowns and Simba. They will try to give their colleagues notes on how to overcome a hostile crowd.

"This could be our chance. The onus is on them to beat us. We shall play this match on a quarterly basis. We will be offensive for 15 minutes, counter-attack in the other or defend basing on our opponents approach.  

Ochan and Miya are divine preachers

Since the Cranes set foot here, Benjamin Ochan and Miya have led prayers in Christianity and Islam respectively.   

Minister Bakkabulindi is now a tactician

While addressing both sets of national teams -the Cranes and Silverbacks, State minister for sports Charles Bakkabulindi advised both teams to go for an early kill. "The best way to silence your opponent with big support is to hit him with a knockout punch. If you score them early, they will panic. This is also helpful when you are not sure of the referee. Don't mind about colour, high-profile stars, intimidating records etc. Just dribble, take a shot and score. We shall return to Kampala victorious." 

Cranes captain Onyango speaks out

"Tomorrow is our D-Day. God will help us but we need to first have character and stamina. It is good our basketball brothers will be in the stadium to support us, let all Ugandans be united for the big game. All players are very ready for the match. 

National basketball captain Stephen Omony speaks out

"Basketball and soccer could differ in style of play but we are all one in fighting for victory. Uganda's flag has to be top." 

FUFA president Moses Magogo

"It is always a blessing to play for your mother country so everyone here has to fight gallantly for a good result.  You are all ambassadors for our beautiful country. 

Probable XI: Onyango, Wadada,  Walusimbi (Jjajja Waalu),  Juuko,  Isinde,  Aucho,  Okwi, Wasswa, Miya,  Luwagga and Ochaya.