Egypt's coach is said to have warned his players about this Sunday's clash against Bafana Bafana, insisting that his side should avoid falling into a trap.
The second leg of the 2024 CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifier between Egypt and Bafana will take place on Sunday, 9 March. The first leg ended in a 1-1 draw in Bloemfontein last week.
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Egypt coach Wael Riad admitted that he was pleased with the first-leg result, as his team performed well despite being fatigued from the trip from Cairo to Mangaung.
With the second leg now just around the corner, Riad is said to have warned his players about the threat that Bafana poses.
According to Btolat, a source within the coaching staff of Egypt's home-based national team said: "Wael Riad warned his players and coaching staff about the second leg against South Africa in the qualifiers for the African Nations Championship for local players.
"Shitos described the second leg, scheduled for next Sunday evening, as a 'trap' because the South African team has quality players who are capable of scoring in Egypt, especially as the match will be held at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium, which has an excellent playing surface."
The winner of the tie will face the winner of the Comoros versus Malawi match in the second stage of the qualifiers to determine the team that will qualify for the finals.
Elsewhere, Bafana also confirmed changes in their squad, as Monnapule Saleng, Nduduzo Mhlongo, and Naledi Hlongwane were released to return to their clubs.
The trio was replaced by Victor Letsoalo from TS Galaxy, as well as Mondli Mpoto and Levy Mashiane of Royal AM.
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By Lukhanyo Mtuta
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