Friday World Cup Preview and Odds – Egypt vs. Uruguay
June 15, 2018 14:00pm – Central Stadium, Yekaterinburg.
The second day of World Cup action gets underway Friday lunchtime as Egypt, making their first appearance at the tournament for 18 years, take on South American heavyweights Uruguay in Yekaterinburg. The big question is: Will Mohamed Salah start?
Following Russia’s 5-0 demolition of Saudi Arabia in the tournament curtain-raiser on Thursday, both of these teams will be hoping to gain some ground on the early group leaders.
Egypt have been given a boost with the news that Mo Salah should be available for selection. The Liverpool forward dislocated his shoulder during a tussle with Real Madrid’s Sergio Ramos in the Champions League final. It was thought he might miss the tournament but has recovered well and is almost certain to play some part. His nation’s chances will be significantly improved by his inclusion. Former Valencia boss Hector Cuper will need to make the final call on Friday morning.
After being relegated with West Brom, defender Ahmed Hegazi will be hoping for better fortunes in Russia. His form dipped during his first season at the Hawthorns and he may well move on after the tournament. This will be a good opportunity to put himself back in the shop window.
Uruguay finished their World Cup warm-up with a comfortable 3-0 win over Uzbekistan. Blessed with the attacking duo of Luis Suarez and Edison Cavani, they will hope to make it to the latter stages of the tournament. They emerged from the group stages in the last two editions of the event, finishing fourth in 2010.
As well as having significant firepower, they also have a strong defence built around Captain Diego Godin and Atletico Madrid teammate Jose Maria Gimenez.
Egypt XI:
El Hadary, Fathy, Gabr, Hegazi, Abbel Shafy, Elneny, Hamed, Hassan, Bekhit, Sobhi, Salah
Uruguay XI:
Muslera, Pereira, Gimenez, Godin, Caceres, Acosta, Bentacur, Vecino, Arrascaeta, Suarez, Cavani
Prediction
Uruguay are seasoned World Cup campaigners and one of South America’s most entertaining sides. Even with Mo Salah in the starting XI, Egypt will do well to stay in this game.
You can back the Uruguay at 4/7 with Betfair