FIFA DAY: EGYPT MEETS OMAN

In a context that mirrors their shared preparations for the Brazil 2014 World Cup qualifiers and taking place during the holy month of Ramadan, Egypt and Oman are set to face each other in a friendly match on August 15 as part of FIFA Day. The Egyptian national team, known as the Pharaohs, is regrouping after their disappointment of being eliminated from the qualifying race for the 2013 African Cup of Nations by the Central African Republic.

With their sights now set on the 2014 World Cup qualifiers, the Pharaohs, led by American coach Bob Bradley, have organized a friendly match against Oman to maintain their competitive edge. Bradley has chosen to rest players who participated in the London Olympic Games and has selected an 18-player squad for this encounter.

The Pharaohs will not play another official match until March 2013 when they resume their quest for a spot in the 2014 World Cup. Although Egypt is out of contention for the 2013 CAN, they are determined not to miss out on the opportunity to qualify for the prestigious World Cup in Brazil. The team has had a promising start in their group, securing victories against Guinea and Mozambique in the World Cup qualifiers.

The friendly against Oman serves as a valuable test for both teams. Egypt, seven-time African champions, aims to put aside the disappointment of their recent elimination and continue their positive momentum. A victory in this friendly would be a welcome boost for the Pharaohs. The match is notable not only for its significance in the teams’ preparations but also for taking place during the summer and the month of Ramadan, adding a unique aspect to the encounter.

The Egyptian squad for the friendly includes:

Goalkeepers: