Match Previews

Egypt well beaten by Belgium last time out. Only two wins in their last 12. Cuper bullish over Salah's fitness. Al-Saeed and Warda both doubts.

Egypt suffered a thumping 3-0 loss against Belgium in their previous World Cup warm-up clash, which took place nine days before their opening match against Uruguay in Ekaterinburg. They were well outplayed in that fixture.

Indeed, in their three preparation games, Egypt have struggled badly. They were held 1-1 by Kuwait and were fortunate to secure a 0-0 draw against Colombia before that Belgium loss.

Key man Mohamed Salah has not played any of these fixtures, but Egypt’s poor run extends back further than that. They have not won any of their last six, drawing three and losing three. Of their last 12, they have won only twice.

Egypt’s preparation has been dominated by concerns over the fitness of Mohamed Salah, who sustained a shoulder problem in the Champions League final. Hector Cuper seemed to put these concerns to bed during his press conference when he said: "I can assure you almost 100% Salah will play." Just how big a role remains to be seen, but there is a strong chance he could start.

Veteran goalkeeper Essam El Hadary had been carrying a knock in recent weeks but was fit enough to play 45 minutes against Belgium in the previous warm-up game and will compete to feature in this clash.

Abdallah Al-Said and Amr Warda are also worries for Egypt after sustaining knocks against the Belgians. Neither is thought to be serious, but could put their participation into doubt.

Ali Gabr has been training normally, despite some bruising. He will be fine to play in the opening game.

Egypt previously met Uruguay in a friendly in August 2006. They suffered a 2-0 home loss.