Hosts Russia will realistically guarantee themselves a spot in the knock out rounds on Tuesday with a win over Egypt.
Russia thrashed Saudi Arabia 5-0 in the tournament’s opening fixture, with substitute Denis Cheryshev scoring twice.
Aleksandr Golovin was excellent for the hosts, scoring a superb free-kick and laying on two assists.
Egypt were denied a precious point in the last minute against Uruguay last time out.
Mohammed Salah wasn’t brought on in the game and they were made to pay in added time when Jose Gimenez headed home.
The meeting on Tuesday will be the first between the two nations.
Elsewhere in Group A, Uruguay will look to secure their place in the last 16 when they face Saudi Arabia.
Team news
Russia will be without midfielder Alan Dzagoev, after he was forced off early on in their opening game with a hamstring issue.
There is a small chance Fodor Smolov will drop out for Artem Dzyuba, with the latter scoring off the bench vs. Saudi Arabia.
Egypt’s key man Salah is expected to return to the starting XI for their crunch fixture with Russia.
Captain Ahmed Fathi is a minor doubt, however it would be a surprise if he isn’t selected.
Expected starting XI’s
Russia (4-3-3): Akinfeev; Fernandes, Kutepov, Ignashevich, Zhirkov; Gazinski, Zobnin, Golovin; Samedov, Smolov, Cheryshev
Egypt (4-2-3-1): El-Shenawy; Fathi, Hegazy, Gabr, Abdel-Shafy; Hamed, Elneny; Salah, Said, Trezeguet; Mohsen
Predictions
Result: Draw (11/5 with Bet 365)
Correct Score: 1-1 (11/2 with Betfred)
Anytime Goalscorer: Mohammed Salah (9/4 with Betfair)
