Uganda Cranes have to tame Egypt

Jun 30, 2019

It is the first time Cranes have picked more points in their first two games at the Africa Cup of Nations finals as well as avoiding defeat

Uganda Cranes need just one point in their final Group A game with hosts Egypt today to qualify for the last 16 round as runners up with the Pharaohs already through.

The Cranes drew with Zimbabwe in their second game and another point would secure them a second place finish without needing the result in the other game in the group between Zimbabwe and DR Congo.

Though it could seem hard to bet on a Cranes' win, they could also top the group with victory over Egypt and coach Sebastien Desabre says his team is ready for the task at Cairo International Stadium.

"Egypt are among the favourites, are at home meaning that we expect a different atmosphere because of the home fans but my players will put up a good performance," Desabre said.

"We have four points but still need something from the Egypt game."

In the first two games, Cranes edged DR Congo 2-0 before drawing 1-1 with Zimbabwe to go second with four points, two behind group leaders Egypt.

It is the first time Cranes have picked more points in their first two games at the Africa Cup of Nations finals as well as avoiding defeat.

The last time Uganda and Egypt met was at the 2017 Nations Cup finals in Gabon with the North African side winning the Group D match 1-0. Cranes' improvement since then is evident in this year's tournament.

At the tournament in Gabon, Cranes got one point. Egypt is no doubt the biggest test so far in this year's campaign.

For the hosts who have not conceded a goal, a draw would be enough for them to top the group after winning their first two games against Zimbabwe (1-0) and DR Congo (2-0).

Egypt's coach Javier Aguirre is looking forward to winding up the group phase with a 100% record. He did not confirm whether he will rest some of the key players or not.

"It is good we are already into the round of 16 but want to end the group games strongly and are not taking anything for granted," he said.

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