File Photo: Egypt's forward Abdallah Said (C) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal during the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations group D football match between Egypt and Uganda in Port-Gentil on January 21, 2017 (Photo: AFP)
Egypt coach Hector Cuper has called up Moemen Zakareya, Hossam Hassan and Mohamed Fathi to replace three injured players ahead of Sunday's crucial game against Congo in the 2018 World Cup qualifiers.
The Pharaohs are missing three key-players due to injury: Ahly duo Abdallah El-Said and Hossam Ashour sustained muscle injuries during CAF Champions League games, while Mahmoud Abdel-Monem "Kahraba", who plays for Ittihad Jeddah, is also out with a leg injury.
The trio are confirmed to miss the coming game against Congo.
"Saleh Gomaa will be a suitable replacement for the injured Abdallah El-Said," Cuper told a press conference on Monday.
"I am convinced by the performance of Saleh Gomaa, as well as any player in the team squad who can participate, according to the needs of the game.
"Egypt's national team will be affected by the absence of injured forward Kahraba," Cuper added.
Egypt will host Congo in the much-anticipated 2018 World Cup qualifier game, scheduled for 8 October.
The Pharaohs and Congo will meet in Group E in the tournament's fifth matchday at Borg El-Arab Stadium in Alexandria.
Topping Group E with nine points, the Pharaohs are looking for a victory over Congo to boost their chances of a place in the 2018 World Cup finals in Russia.
If Egypt win on 8 October, they only need Ghana to beat Uganda in their next Group E clash to ensure a place in Russia next year.
Egypt last made it to the World Cup in 1990 and hope to end their 28-year wait with an appearance in Russia.
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