A historic semi-final berth isn't beyond reach for pre-tournament underdogs Egypt who can go through if they beat the United States in the Confederations Cup on Sunday. Optimistic Egyptian fans were hoping their national team would just put in fine displays in South Africa to atone for their shocking 3-1 defeat to Algeria in the World Cup qualifiers earlier this month. But the Pharaohs not only played well, but also shook world football with an impressive victory over world champions Italy. They suffered a cruel 4-3 defeat to Brazil in their Group B opener, thanks to a last-gasp penalty by Kaka but their performance against the Selecao showed that they could compete with the world's best teams. A fearless approach saw Egypt stun Italy with a 1-0 win on Thursday to secure their first ever victory in FIFA tournaments and close in on a place in the semi finals. The African champions are level on three points with Italy, three behind leaders Brazil while the US lie at the bottom with no points. A victory for Egypt over the US will lift them to the next round in case Italy fail to beat Brazil, who need a point to ensure their progress. "The game against the United States is even more important than the ones against Italy and Brazil," inspirational playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika said. "If we don't win against the Americans, our victory over Italy will be rendered largely meaningless. This is a decisive game and we must be ready for a fight"
Zidan out of the game Goal difference will determine who will qualify for the semis if Egypt finish level on points with Italy. Italy enjoy a one-goal advantage over Egypt before the final group stage games take place on Sunday. Inexperienced Striker Egypt coach Hassan Shehata will have to rely on an inexperienced striker during the anticipated clash against Gold Cup winners the US. Lively forward Mohamed Zidan, who scored twice in Egypt's defeat to Brazil, has been ruled out of the game after picking up a hamstring injury against Italy. Harras Hodoud's Ahmed Abdul-Ghani, ENPPI's Ahmed Raouf or Ismaili's Mohamed Mohsen Abou-Greisha could play the lone striker role instead of the Borussia Dortmund man. Full-backs Ahmed Fathi and Sayed Moawad, who were also injured against Italy, should be fit to play against the Americans. However, it is yet unclear whether the duo, who produced scintillating displays in the Confederations Cup, will make the starting line-up. Their back-ups are Ahmed Al-Muhammadi, who returns from suspension after being sent off against Brazil, and Ahmed Samir Farag.
