Egypt assistant coach Shawki Gharib castigated his players after the shocking goalless draw with Botswana in the African Cup qualifiers. "This was a negative result," Gharib told FilGoal.com via phone from the southern country. "The atmosphere was set for us to win the game, but we couldn't." The African champions dominated the game from the starting whistle till the stoppage time but struggled in front of goal. Egypt's powerful striking partnership between Ahmed Hossam 'Mido' and Mohamed Zidan couldn't beat the hosts' defense and keeper despite several clear-cut chances. Manager Hassan Shehata fielded a third striker in Emad Meteb After the break, replacing playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika but he hardly had an impact. Gharib refused to blame the draw on fasting and said he is confident that Egypt's campaign towards the African Cup of Nations is safe. "Fasting may have slightly affected the players but it can't be the main reason behind the result," he said. "Anyway, we shouldn't be worried. I am confident that (African Cup host nation) Ghana will be our final destination." Egypt top Group B with four points from two games, leading Mauritania, who play Burundi on Sunday, with goal difference.
