Egypt earned a hard fought victory over Liberia 1-0 after a mediocre performance, putting Hossam El-Badry's leadership skills in doubt as the national team heads to the African Cup of Nations qualifiers in Cameroon.
Ahmed Gomaa wasted two assured opportunities in the opening minutes of the match after brilliant supportive efforts by the ambitious Amr Solaya.
Egyptians continued to waste opportunities in front of Liberia's goal, and in the 15th minute Mohamed Magdy headed a ball out of the box that went easy in the hands of the goalkeeper.
Hussein Al-Shahat was violently attacked by Liberian Benjamin Doe in the 37th minute and the medical staff had to enter the stadium to help him.
However, Al-Shahat did not return to the field after being injured, and the coaching staff made the first substitution, replacing him in the 42nd minute by Amr Tarek.
There was nothing new from Egypt in the second half and they were unable to threaten Liberia as the second half was just as dull as the first for El-Badry's team.
Hamdi Fathi scored a goal for Egypt in the 85th minute after receiving a cross from the right side from Mohamed Hani directing the shot into Liberia's goal.
Egypt will face off against Kenya on November 14 before facing Comoros in the 18th of the same months in the second round of the qualifiers.
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