Egypt's World Cup campaign might be effectively over just hours after Senegal became the first African country to secure a win in the 2018 World Cup, following another superb performance by the host nation Russia as they secured a 3-1 victory over the Pharaohs.
Russia went into the game with a lot to prove following their 5-0 victory over Saudi Arabia which many discounted due to Saudi's apparent lack of footballing prowess. But after securing another convincing victory against an Egypt side that appeared tricky on paper, it's fair to say Russia have big plans for the World Cup.
The first-half had a few end-to-end moments, but neither side truly took control of the game. The second 45 though, was very lively and eventful with Russia exerting their dominance on the pitch.
The game's opener came in the 47th minute through an unlucky own goal from Egyptian defender Ahmed Fathi, who couldn't do much to prevent the ball from coming off him before creeping past Mohamed El Shenawi and into the back of the net.
Denis Cheryshev doubled Russia's lead after converting a driven pass from Mario Fernandes in the 59th minute, taking Russia one step closer to the World Cup's knockout stages.
Artem Dzyuba effectively secured the victory for Russia in the 62nd-minute after utilizing his skill to bring the ball down and put it into the back of the net.
Egypt were handed a penalty in the 72nd minute after Roman Zobnin pulled Mohamed Salah's shirt in the 18-yard-area.
The Liverpool forward bagged himself a goal from the penalty spot, but it wasn't enough to inspire a comeback as his side succumbed to a 3-1 defeat.
WORLD CUP - GROUP A
Russia - 3 (Fathi o.g 47',Cheryshev 59' Dzyuba 62')
Egypt - 1 (Salah 73')
Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg - 64,468
