Egypt were beaten 3-1 by Russia in their second World Cup outing as Hector Cuper’s side stand on the brink of an early elimination.
The Pharaohs started tentatively, but grew into the game, although they collapsed in the second half and appeared unable to cope with the hosts after falling behind.
Offensively, there were spells in which Egypt looked more adventurous – and more menacing – going forward than they ever did in their opener against Uruguay.
Mohamed Salah also appeared not to aggravate his shoulder injury, although he did appear to lack match fitness.
In truth, however, this was a dark night for Egyptian football, and not an evening for positives.
Early on, the Pharaohs were too passive and appeared to lack confidence.
After the break, they were devastated by Russia’s directness and physicality, completely failing to take heed from the evidence presented during the hosts’ 5-0 evisceration of Saudi Arabia.
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