Congo manager Pierre Lechantre believes that his side would have a good chance in their upcoming clash in the World Cup qualifiers, saying Egypt 'are no longer' as strong as they used to be years ago. Congo will host Egypt in Group E opener on 3 October as both sides are eyeing a winning start in the qualifying campaign for the 2018 Russia finals. The Pharaohs were drawn in Group E along with Ghana, Congo and Uganda. "Egypt are no longer as strong as they used to be years back," Lechantre told the FIFA official website on Tuesday. The Frenchman insisted his side are not outsiders, saying that a fine start in such a tough group will boost Congo's chances of causing an upset. “As everyone knows, there are no longer ‘small' teams in Africa,” he added. “So if we can pick up four points against Egypt and Uganda, we will open up a window of opportunity for ourselves. We would then look to continue to perform solidly and compete for the group's one ticket for Russia. In World Cup qualifying in Africa, a powerful start is vital.” Egypt are seeking to reach the World Cup for the first time since making the last of their two appearances in 1990. (For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at @AO_Sports and on Facebook at AhramOnlineSports.)
