World Cup 2018: Salah’s Egypt beaten 3-1 by Russia

One of Africa’s representatives Egypt are technically no longer in the running for the 2018 FIFA World Cup after losing 3-1 to Russia in their second group game at the Saint Petersburg Stadium on Tuesday night.

The Pharaohs, who are making their first appearance at the mundial in 28 years, have now lost their first two matches.

Egypt kicked off their campaign on a disappointing note after they were stunned by an 89th-minute header by Jose Gimenez in a 1-0 defeat to Uruguay last Friday.

A win from the Russia game would have boosted their chances of remaining in the competition, but they are now on the brink of elimination.

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But the home team got ahead with a 47th-minute own goal by Ahmed Fathy, doubled their lead on the hour mark by Denis Cheryshev and made it 3-0 two minutes after by Artem Dzyuba.

Liverpool star Mohamed Salah, who was making his first start in Russia having been left on the bench in their first game, pulled one goal back for Egypt from the penalty spot in the 73rd minute.

Both sides then fought tirelessly in search of more goals, but Russia held on and came out on top as they sealed their second victory at the tournament.

The hosts had defeated Saudi Arabia 5-0 in their opening game, and thus sit at the top of Group A with 6 points, followed by Uruguay who face Saudi on Wednesday.

 

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