African champs, Egypt jet in today

2010 World/CAN
qualifier
Group C
Sat
Rwanda v Egypt
Sun
Algeria v Zambia

With four days before the crucial 2010 World Cup and Africa Nations Cup qualifier against Egypt, Amavubi Stars coach Branko Tucak has axed 14 players from the team’s training camp.

Jean Bosco Uwacu, Arafat Serugendo, Rodriquez Murengezi, Bonaventure Hategikimana, Elias Ntaganda, Pekeyake Tuyisenge, Yusuf Ndayishimiye, Aimable Rucogoza, Abdul Uwimana, Yahaya Ugirimurengera, John Karangwa, Mabula Mudeyi, Jean Shyaka and Jimmy Mwiseneza were yesterday sent packing from camp.

Didier Kouin Kapet is the latest professional player to join Amavubi team while striker Cyril Kaume was expected to join last evening.

Tucak’s side, which lie at the bottom of Group C with a sole point have to win their remaining qualifying games to keep their qualification hopes alive.

After the home game against Egypt, the Amavubi team will play their next qualifier against Algeria on October 10 before winding up the campaign against Zambia on November 14 at home.

Meanwhile, Egypt arrive in the country this morning the crucial 2010 World/Africa Nations’ Cup qualifier set for this Saturday at Amahoro stadium.

The reigning African champions are expected at Kigali International Airport at 11:00 local time aboard a chartered Egypt airline plane. The will reside at Hotel Des Milles Collines.

However, star striker Amr Zaki a major doubt to make the trip to Kigali after he failed to recover in time for the game.
According to Filgoal.com, Zaki’s agent Nader Shawki on Tuesday said the striker has no chance of featuring in Saturday’s game.

The Zamalek striker was not included in the Pharaohs’ 23-man squad after picking up a foot injury in his side’s 2-all draw against Arab Contractors in the Egyptian league.

The 26-year-old’s absence will add to coach Hassan Shehata’s worries over shortage of options upfront.

Borussia Dortmund striker Mohamed Zidan was snubbed after failing to show up for Egypt’s friendly game against Guinea earlier this month without excuse.

Mido, who joined Zamalek from English side Middleborough on a season-long loan, is still short of match fitness.

Algeria is on top of the group with seven points and both Egypt and Zambia are tied on four points.

Ends