Algeria and Egypt could face play-off

السبت، 24 أكتوبر 2009

FIFA have confirmed that North African rivals Egypt and Algeria could face a one-off play-off to decide which nation qualifies for the 2010 World Cup.

Algeria currently lead the Pharaohs by three points having picked up 13 points from five matches, but Egypt still have a chance of making it to South Africa if they beat les Fennecs by more than two goals in the final qualifier on November 14.

But a two-goal win of any description for Egypt would leave the sides completely tied at the top of qualification Group C - level on points, goal difference, goals scored and goals conceded.

Algeria currently have a goal difference of 9-2, while Egypt's is 7-4 and a two-goal victory for the Pharaohs would see the teams also share an identical head-to-head record in terms of goals scored and conceded after Algeria won 3-1 in the reverse fixture in June.

It had been thought that a drawing of lots could take place but FIFA have revealed that a one-off play-off will take place at a neutral ground on November 18 in the result of a tie.

The possible play-off means that Egypt have had to cancel their friendly against Germany planned for November 18, with Joachim Low's side opting to take on the Ivory Coast instead.

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=687333&sec=worldcup&cc=3888