Goals from Zamalek duo Ahmed Eid and Hazem Emam gave Egypt, who were without Al-Ahly and foreign-based internationals, a 2-0 win over a second-string Uganda in a warm-up match ahead of the World Cup qualifying play-off against Ghana.
Zamalek’s Ahmed Eid opened the scoring with a volley at the far post following a brilliant cross from Ahmed Hamoudi after just seven minutes.
Uganda came close to equalising on a couple occasions, with left back Brian Majwega hitting the crossbar, and had a goal from Simon Okwi ruled for offside. Egypt's Shikabala also came close to scoring as his shot was deflected off a defender but was denied by the post just before half-time.
After recess, both Coaches made immediate changes and it was substitute Hazem Emam who doubled the score for the Pharaohs following a perfectly executed one-two with Shikabala the provider with a remarkable back-heel assist.
As Bradley aimed to field many of the provisional squad’s fringe players for the upcoming clash in Kumasi, the Egypt boss was unlucky to see Zamalek star Shikabala forced off with an injury just seven minutes from time.
Shikabala, who was superb throughout the match, appeared to have twisted his ankle awkwardly as he limped off the pitch.
However, the medical staff told reporters after the game that the initial reports suggest it is a relatively minor knock, but tests are still pending.
Uganda should have at least got a consolation but URA FC striker Frank Kalanda was again at fault for missing a one on one opportunity.
Ismaily midfielder Hosni Abd-Rabo made his anticipated return after a lengthy layoff with a serious knee injury but was replaced after 72 minutes by Egypt U-20 left wing-back Ahmed Samir.
Egypt’s last meeting with Uganda ended in a 3-0 win for the hosts in a friendly played in El-Gouna on August 14.
Al-Ahly’s eleven internationals are set to report back for national duty after the first leg of the CAF Champions League semi-final at Cameroon’s Cotonsport on 6 October.
The first leg between the Black Stars of Ghana and the Pharaohs of Egypt will be played on Tuesday 15th October at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.
The return leg against Ghana will be held among the presence of fans at Cairo’s Air Defense Stadium on November 19.
Meanwhile, the Cranes are set to play Iraq in another friendly on October 2 at the Amman Stadium in Jordan.
“My young side played a good game but lost concentration in defense which resulted into goals. But am happy that they have got the exposure,” said Cranes coach Micho after the game.
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