Pharaohs out to make light work of eSwatini

Mohamed Elneny

Thursday Oct 11, 2018. 12:11

Egypt will be aiming to take another step towards 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualification when they play host to eSwatini (formerly Swaziland) at the Al Salam Stadium in Cairo on Friday evening.

Kick-off is at 19h00 CAT (SA, GMT+2).

The Pharaohs currently occupy second spot in Group J following a 6-0 thumping of Niger in Alexandria last month. Egypt lost their opening game of the campaign 1-0 to Tunisia last year and the Carthage Eagles continue to lead the way with six points from six.

Liverpool's Mohamed Salah bagged a brace in what was Javier Aguirre's first game in charge after replacing Hector Cuper following the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Salah is yet to reach the sort of form he showcased for the Reds last season, but a good international break might reignite the scoring touch that helped him to 44 goals in all competitions for Liverpool.

Aguirre was expecting a reaction from his troops following their dismal showing in Russia, and the Mexican is hoping for continued improvement from the record seven-time Afcon champions.

“It’s a good start and a big scoreline is the least from what I demanded from the players," Aguirre is quoted as saying following their win over Niger.

“The players did not carry out all the instructions given. They were happy with this camp and this helped get a big win, but we have to be careful as we may not be able to beat other opponents with such a big scoreline.

“They are all getting along well because they have a good relationship with each other."

Sihlangu Semnikati currently occupy third spot in the group, with a goalless draw away to Niger followed by a 2-0 home defeat to Tunisia.

The reverse fixture will take place at the Mavuso Sports Centre in Manzini on Tuesday.