Egypt coach Hassan Shehata said that his players need to be ready for facing Italy’s physical presence when the two teams meet in the Confederations Cup on Thursday.
After losing 4-3 to Brazil on Monday, the Pharaohs will clash with the world champions on Thursday and Shehata wants his players to match the Azzuri’s game.
“Italy are known for their physical strength and I told my players to be ready for their aggressive approach,” Shehata said.
“It is very important that we dont get provoked by their hard tackles.
“We also need to deploy an advanced backline. We can’t afford to leave them any space for long-range shots.”
Italy scored twice from outside the box during their 3-1 win over USA.
Shehata added that his team need to raise their tempo on Thursday; stressing that keeping the ball too much can cost Egypt dearly against Marcello Lippi’s men.
Egypt are currently third in Group B on goal difference over USA. Italy and Brazil are first and second respectively.
