Egypt's national team flew back to Alexandria in the early hours of Friday to prepare for another duel with Uganda after they suffered a stunning 1-0 defeat by the Cranes in Kampala on Thursday. Emmanuel Okwi capped a spirited Uganda display with a second-half goal after some sloppy defending to help his side move top of Group E with seven points, one ahead of Egypt. The result left the Pharaohs in desperate need of a win over Uganda at Alexandria's Borg El-Arab Stadium on Tuesday to reclaim top spot and boost their chances of qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since 1990. Only the group winners will reach next year's Russia finals. “Our hopes are still alive but we have to win on Tuesday,” Egyptian Football Association (EFA) chief Hani Abou-Reida said following the game. “We don't have any other alternative but to support our team, especially that we have limited time for the next game.” Egypt also host bottom side Congo in October before meeting Ghana away from home in their last qualifier. Veteran goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary, who made some fine stops against Uganda, is a major doubt for Tuesday's clash after hurting his knee. His condition will be assessed on Friday, according to local reports. (For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at @AO_Sports and on Facebook at AhramOnlineSports.)
