Egypt's injured duo Mohamed Abou-Treika and Mohamed Barakat could well be declared fit for Saturday's World Cup qualifier with Rwanda. Both midfielders took part in the Pharaohs' last pre-match training session on Friday, which indicate they have a substantial chance of taking part in the crunch encounter. Skillful playmaker Abou-Treika sustained a knee injury on Monday, while mercurial ace Barakat was suffering a pelvic problem. The pair should undergo further examinations later on Friday in order for the medical staff to decide whether or not they will be able to catch the crucial qualifying game. Egypt coach Hassan Shehata is in dire need of their services, as he's already missing many of his key figures. Strike duo Amr Zaki and Emad Meteb are unavailable through injury, while Mohamed Zidan was excluded as a disciplinary action for missing last month's friendly with Guinea.
Barakat Zamalek frontman Mido was also left out of the squad due to lack of match fitness. Defender Mahmoud Fathallah was ruled out with a complex shoulder injury of late. Playmaker Shikabala was also left out due to injury. The African champions lie second in Group C with four points, three behind leaders Algeria with three matches to go. Zambia are third on four points, while Rwanda are languishing at the bottom with a sole point. Any stumble for Egypt against Rwanda, Zambia or Algeria in their remaining games will seriously diminish their chances of reaching the World Cup. Only the group winners will book a place in South Africa finals.
