The Pharaohs shook world football when they overcame the Azzurri in the Confederations Cup, thanks to a first-half header by Mohamed Hommos.

A last-gasp penalty from Kaka gave Brazil a barely-deserved 4-3 victory over Egypt in the tournament's opener.

While Egypt have a chance to reach the semis, they still believe a place in the World Cup is a more important target.

The African champions could only get one point from their opening two games in the qualifiers' final phase after failing to beat Zambia and Algeria.

"That win will lift our morale before we play the remaining matches in the World Cup qualifiers," classy playmaker Abou-Treika told Al-Hayat TV.

"We put in a superb display against Brazil and defeated Italy so it will be unfair if we do not qualify for the World Cup.

"This generation deserve to play in the prestigious tournament," Abou-Treika, who produced scintillating displays in the Confederations Cup, added.

Egypt have not reached the World Cup since the 1990 tournament in Italy, where they failed to get beyond the first round.

Toughest Game

Egypt, who claimed their first ever victory over in FIFA tournaments, moved to third spot in Group B with three points, behind second-placed Italy on goal difference.

They take on the United States, who have no points, in their last group-stage encounter on Sunday while Italy face Brazil.

All four teams still have a chance to book a last-four berth.

"We will play the toughest game against the US. They have nothing to lose, so we should be careful," Abou-Treika added.