The return match of the Brazil 2014 World Cup play-offs between Egypt and Ghana is scheduled to take place on November 19 at the Cairo Military Stadium, which has been renamed the June 30 Stadium. This holds significant importance for the Pharaohs, as it marks their return to their home stadium after a two-year absence. The stadium was largely avoided due to street demonstrations demanding the departure of Mohamed Morsi.
The decision to host the match at the June 30 Stadium was initiated by the Egyptian Federation after consultations with the country’s authorities, meeting FIFA’s deadline. This event serves as an opportunity for the public to reconnect with the stadium and support their team as Egypt aims for a spot in the World Cup, which would be their third appearance in the tournament after 1934 and 1990.
Bob Bradley, the coach of the Pharaohs, had expressed a desire to face Ghana in this 30,000-seat stadium, and the decision aligns with his preference. Bradley has already published an initial list of players to face Ghana in what promises to be a crucial match in the quest for World Cup qualification. The first leg between the two teams is scheduled for October 15.
