2018 World Cup qualifiers: Group E players to watch

Thomas Partey of Ghana (l) challenged by Sebastien Siani of Cameroon (l) during the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations Finals Afcon semifinal football match between Cameroon and Ghana at the Franceville Stadium in Gabon on 02 February 2017 ©Gavin Barker/BackpagePix

by Graeme Jackson

Friday Nov 10, 2017. 15:00

We look at the players to watch ahead of this weekend’s round of 2018 World Cup qualifiers.Today’s focus is on Group E: Egypt, Uganda, Ghana and Congo.

Group E fixtures

Sunday 12 November
Congo v Uganda - Stade Alphonse Massemba-Debat, Brazzaville - 16h30 CAT
Ghana v Egypt - Baba Yara Stadium, Kumasi - 17h30 CAT

Congo - Dylan Saint-Louis

Congo forward Dylan Saint-Louis looks a highly promising prospect for the Red Devils and made his debut last month in the loss away to Egypt. He’ll hope that this match, with less pressure and expectation, offers him a further chance to establish himself for the national team.

Uganda - Emmanuel Okwi

Emmanuel Okwi was the last goal scorer for Uganda in this qualifying group, netting the only goal in the famous victory over Egypt back in August. The Cranes need some attacking inspiration to get back to their best and will hope that the 24-year-old provides it in Brazzaville.

Ghana - Thomas Partey

Thomas Partey has been in magnificent form for both club and country in recent times, and the chance to impose himself upon an already-qualified Egypt is one he will not want to miss out on. Expect the Atletico Madrid man to further entrench himself under the guidance of coach James Kwesi Appiah.

Egypt - Amr Gamal

With Mohamed Salah rested, Egypt will field a changed attack in Kumasi on Sunday. The man who may benefit most is striker Amr Gamal, who has been in sharp form for South African champions Bidvest Wits and would love the chance to impress national team coach Hector Cuper.