Hosts Egypt continue poor run in U-20 AFCON with goalless draw against Zambia - National Teams
Egypt's U-20 national team failed to bounce back from last week's heavy defeat to Sierra Leone, settling for a goalless draw against Zambia in the third round of the CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday.
The young Pharaohs extended their poor run in the continental tournament they are hosting, with just one win from three games
Egypt entered the match under pressure, having suffered a 4-1 loss to Sierra Leone in their previous Group A encounter.
Saturday's draw against Zambia leaves Egypt second in the group with four points, while Sierra Leone top the standings with seven points.
Zambia, who have played one less match, remain in fourth with two points from two draws.
South Africa sit third with three points, while Tanzania languish at the bottom without a point after two games.
Egypt controlled possession in the first half, with Seif El Deen Essam testing Zambia's defence early on. After just three minutes, Essam's long-range shot from over 35 yards sailed wide of the left post.
The hosts continued to apply pressure, with Ahmed Abdin, Omar Khedr, and Mohamed Abdallah all forcing saves from Zambia's goalkeeper, but none were able to break the deadlock.
Egypt head coach Osama Nabih made changes after the interval, introducing Mohamed Raafat and Osama Omar in an attempt to inject fresh energy into the attack.
However, Zambia's defence held firm, and the game ended without a goal.
Egypt will next face Tanzania in their final group match on Friday.
(For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at @AO_Sports and on Facebook at AhramOnlineSports.)
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