Egypt proved they were the surprise package of this year’s Confederations Cup by beating Italy in the second round and they are now on the verge of booking their place in the semi-finals. Hassan Shehata’s team had hinted they could surprise one of the big guns having played really well against Brazil, narrowly losing the game 4:3. The winners of the last two editions of the African Nations Cup taught the World Champions Italy a real lesson in football and I wouldn’t be surprised if they go all the way.
The Pharaohs entered the game after the unlucky defeat in the opening game to Brazil, knowing that only victory over Italy would keep their semi-final hopes alive. Italians opened the game brightly but they couldn’t find a way past Egypt’s five-man defence, which was rock-solid at most times. Hassan Shehata’s team played patiently waiting for their chance and they managed to take the lead few minutes before the break when Homes headed in after a corner. Italy looked much better in the second period, especially when Montolivo and Toni came on for Gattuso and Rossi, but Egyptians had plenty of chances to kill off the game after being afforded a lot of space on the break. The Pharaohs managed to hold on to their lead and thus recorded the first ever win over Italy.
Hassan Shehata’s tactics worked like a charm against probably the strongest team in the world when tactical discipline is concerned and this is a sign that Egypt have the potential to go all the way. They now need to record better result than Italy in the last round, which shouldn’t be a problem considering that Egypt play USA, whereas Italy play Brazil. Brazil have already booked their ticked for the semis with a comprehensive win over USA but they are unlikely to cut Italy any slack in the final group game.
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