World Cup Focus: Egypt have carefully analysed Russia according to Ihab Leheta

by Phumzile Ngcatshe

Monday Jun 18, 2018. 10:00

Ahead of their second Group A match of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, Egypt national team manager Ihab Leheta says they are focusing on attack against Russia.

Despite having a good game against Uruguay in their opening match on Friday, the Pharaohs lost the match 1-0 to the South Americans.

However, with news that star attacker Mohamed Salah could be available for the clash, Leheta says coach Hector Cuper will aim for a better attack.

Still recovering from a shoulder injury, Salah was benched on Friday as the North Africans failed to start their first World Cup since 1990 with a win.

Speaking from their base in Russia, Leheta has expressed confidence ahead of the Pharaohs' anticipated second World Cup match against Russia in St Petersburg.

“Cuper will be focusing on the attack. We are aware that we have no option but to win the Russia game if we want to proceed,” said Leheta.

"Not at all (worried about referees). We never put these matters into consideration.

"It will be a very tough game of course, because we are meeting the hosts in a venue that could witness 60,000 spectators, but the team members are determined to win.

"We have studied Russia carefully and their 5-0 win is not the norm. We are capable of defeating them," he stressed.

"Psychologically, the team are more ready now after getting in tune with the World Cup atmosphere. They will definitely perform more confidently after delivering a good show in the opener."

Meanwhile, Leheta also confirmed that there are no injuries and that Tarek Hamed has recovered from his back injury.