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Egypt down Mozambique

Egypt down Mozambique

Posted: 2010-01-16 22:46

Egypt started slowly against Mozambique but did enough in the second half to get a 2-0 win that keeps them in first place and books their place in the knockout stages of the continental showpiece.

Although history would suggest that the Mambas would struggle against the Pharaohs, Mart Nooij’s team showed no signs of nervousness from the outset. They were passing the ball about the pitch with confidence and were spurred on by a crowd that was, for the most part, rooting for them.

Egupt’s Metaab came close to successfully concluding a well executed counter attack launched by an Al Hadhary throw. The striker’s shot was parried by the opposing keeper and the disappointing opening 45 minutes ended goalless.

The second half began with rain pouring down onto the pitch and it only took one minute for Egypt to open the scoring off a Dario Khan own goal that was created by an Ahmed Fathy cross from the right. Shehata then took off the injured Hany Said for Al Muhammadi. His counterpart responded by making his first change as well, replacing Fumo with Josemar.

Said Moawad had a good chance to double the Pharaohs’ lead in the 53rd however his strike was deflected by a defender. The move was created thanks to the movement of Shikabala, the only Egyptian player show a good deal of skill in the game.

Egypt was more or less in control of proceedings as they retained possession but they lacked the finishing touch to kill off the game. A great chance was missed by Metaab in the 71st as he couldn’t get on the end of a cross from the right flank.

Entering the last 10 minutes, it looked like the match was going to end 1-0 but Geddo had other ideas, scoring a fantastic left footed volley that he basically set up himself. The goal was his second of the tournament and the Alexandria based striker’s composure in his first Africa Cup of Nations is belying his inexperience at this level.

With this 2-0 win, Egypt is assured of a first placed finish in their group while Mozambique will have to take consolation from the fact that they were not thoroughly dominated by the defending African Champions.

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Biafra: 2010-01-17 09:32

FOR ME TOO, EGYPT IS THE BEST TEAM IN AFRICA

PhatShady : 2010-01-17 09:46

The best team in africa that failed 2 qualify 4 africas 1st world cup? that doesnt sound rite

Polly: 2010-01-17 12:42

Egypt can be termed "Local Champions". they do very well in the continent but always fail to qualify to the world cup. They are not the best team in Africa. I think Nigeria and Cameroun are the only African teams with real quality in EVERY department.

Sweyts: 2010-01-17 13:19

'The Pharaohs' are the most organised, tight-knit and disciplined squad in Africa.... Apparently the coach She`Hatta gives first preference to Islam worshipping players to attest to this.

Maybe a camp in Lenasia would be the way to go for Bafana to catch up! lol!.... Imagine uYeye e 6/9 after having 2much briani! lolvl!

About Egypt being the best, it is debatable since they seem to do well as a team rather than individuals.
Cameroon have been consistent over the years and would get my nod on this one, 'Euro'geria are crap and way overrated.....very lucky to make the WC!

LMS: 2010-01-17 13:29

On current form it is Egypt and not Algeria who should be at the WC. It is unfortunate that the Pharaohs fell to Algeria in that eventful match. The team is in a class of its own. Nigeria and Cameroon have not impressed at Afcon so far and to expect them to lift the cup will be asking too much.

JMasterJ: 2010-01-17 14:17

I think Moz played well, the committment is very evident on all the players. The couch has done a marvellous job with the unknown players.
As for Egypt they had to sweat for 3 points. salute the MAMBAS hope you advance to the next round.

mmjnr: 2010-01-17 20:57

Egypt are not the best team in Afrrica they are the undisputed Kings of Africa and for a team to win the ACN back to back at this time and age has to be a superior side and to keep on going for the 3rd time ina row is just majestic. Respect to Egypt and its a crying shame such giants who not long ago destroyed italy the current world cup holders in south Africa in the Confed Cup and Lost to Brazil after a thriller 3-2 in the dying minutes is a team that all Africa should be proud of coz no other African team has ever amanged to nail the azzuri senior team in an offical competiton since the sun started rising.

Frank: 2010-01-20 10:49

For them Egypt is all that! Why haven't they been to the World Cup in 20 years? Beating the present Super Eagles and Mozambique doesn't make them the best in Africa. The day shall come!

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