Despite having a depleted squad, Egypt will be looking to secure their third successive victory in the World Cup qualifiers when they face Malawi on Saturday. The African champions will be short of attacking options when they visit Malawi, who are placed 126th in FIFA monthly ranking. Ahli striker Emad Meteb, one of Hassan Shehata's usual preferences upfront, was ruled out of the game due to a neck injury. His back-up, Ismaili's Mohamed Fadl, is also out through injury. Star striker Amr Zaki is doubtful due to the knee problems he suffered after playing on an artificial turf in Egypt's 4-0 drubbing of Djibouti. Egypt coach Shehata will likely opt against fielding the Wigan-target frontman as he fears the combative striker may aggravate his injury. The Pharaohs will also have to do without long-term absentees Mohamed Shawky, Mido, Ahmed Fathi and Mohamed Abou-Treika in addition to the suspended Mohamed Zidan. Nevertheless, the former Arab Contractors boss is confident that Egypt, who are on top of Group 12 with six points, can overcome their injury problems. "We have players capable of deputizing for Meteb and the other injured strikers," he told FilGoal.com. Shehata has underlined the importance of beating Malawi, who humiliated Djibouti 8-1 in their group opener. "A win over Malawi is important because it would put us in a pole position to reach the next phase of the qualifiers." Equally Confident Malawi boss Kinnah Phiri is also confident his side can cause an upset when they host six-time African champions Egypt. "The players are in the right frame of mind and prepared to fight for a win," he told local paper Nyasatimes. "We want go give our fans the best result and that should be a win. It is crucial at this stage.
