Egypt’s World Cup chances took a major blow after a second-half collapse saw them lose 3-1 at Algeria in the tournament’s qualifiers on Sunday.
The African champions had the upper hand in a goalless first half but an unexplainable stumble in the second helped Algeria claim a comfortable win.
Three goals from Karim Matmour, Abdelkader Ghezzal and Rafik Djebbour gave Algeria precious three points.
Playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika scored a late consolation for the visitors.
Egypt, who are yet win after drawing with Zambia in their previous game, lie at the bottom of Group C on just one point from two games.
Algeria moved top with four points, ahead of second-placed Zambia on goal difference.
With four matches to go, Egypt will have a mountain to climb if they are to end their World Cup jinx and reach the elite tournament for the first time since 1990.
