Egypt's squad for the World Cup qualifier does not boast a natural playmaker as the Pharaohs are still without Mohamed Abou-Treika due to a recurring knee injury.

Shikabala, who took part in Egypt's previous two games, will fill in for the Ahli star.

Skipper Ahmed Hassan will play as a right back instead of Ahmed Al-Muhammadi, who failed to impress in last week's stunning 1-0 away defeat to Malawi.

Tottenham Hotspur's out-of-favor Hossam Ghaly will partner Hosni Abd-Rabou in the heart of Egypt's midfield.