A fiercely contested game of football between Egypt and Uruguay ended in heart break for the Egyptians, thanks to a late header from Jose Gimenez which sealed all three points for the South Americans.
Both teams started the game rather slowly losing possession on numerous occasions with sloppy passes all over the pitch. This was the story of the first half.
However, the closest any of the teams came to goal was when Luis Suarez fired wide at the near post off a corner kick situation. This was then followed by a first time strike after good cross into the area but the striker’s effort was well wide.
The Barcelona striker didn’t relent as Egypt goalkeeper and man of the match, El Shenawy produced a point blank save to deny the Uruguayan after being put through on goal in the 47th minute.
47' – Save! Suarez strikes but Mohamed El Shenawy denies him with a good block. #YourSportsMemo #SterlingBank #WorldCup
— ACLSports (@acl_sports) June 15, 2018
Not long after it was Edinson Cavani who forced the Egyptian goalie into two superb saves within minutes as the Africans were put under immense pressure by the Uruguayan attack.
83' – Save! Cavani with a good strike but El Shenawy produced a fine save to deny the PSG striker. #YourSportsMemo #WorldCup #SterlingBank
— ACLSports (@acl_sports) June 15, 2018
Just like in any game, Egypt also had their own spell of pressure but they missed the presence of a goal poacher in Mo Salah who watched on helplessly from the bench, due to the shoulder injury sustained in the final of the UEFA Champions League.
Despite El Shenawy’s efforts in goal to earn the Pharaohs a deserved point, Atletico Madrid defender Jose Gimenez rose the highest in the 89th minute nodding the ball beyond the Egyptian goalkeeper who was rooted to the spot.
89' – GOOOOAAALLL!!!! Jose Gimenez gives Uruguay a crucial lead with a well placed header.
El Shenawy was rooted to the spot as the ball went in. #EGY 0-1 #URU #YourSportsMemo #WorldCup #SterlingBank
— ACLSports (@acl_sports) June 15, 2018
This win not only brings Uruguay level on points with Russia who put five past Saudi Arabia on Thursday, it also means that Uruguay make a winning start to their World Cup campaign for the first time since 1970.
