Soccer News of Thursday, 3 November 2016

Source: goal.com

Egypt allays security concerns ahead of Ghana clash

Black Stars Black Stars

Egyptian ambassador to Ghana, Mohammed Heider, has played down security concerns ahead of the Black Stars' encounter with the Pharaohs on November 13.

The two African giants are set to face off at the Borg El Arab Stadium, Alexandria, in the 2018 Fifa World Cup qualifiers.

Egypt has been caught up in political uprisings in recent times, and there have also been reports about possible attacks on Ghana coach Avram Grant due to his Israeli descent.

"Politically Egypt is stable, Egypt is safe," Heider told Starr FM.

"Egypt has an elected President. We have no problem with security or stability whatsoever.

"To my knowledge and understanding, the place is one hundred per cent safe. Not only for Ghanaians but for everyone who is in Egypt.

"Everything is perfect and we are in good standing at the moment. The venue is ready and everybody in Egypt is ready.

"It will be organised in a perfect manner. This is not just a match, but it’s going to be a festival.

"It’s good to win. If we fail to win, then we have to work on the other matches. It’s not the decisive game. Others will follow.

"So I entreat all supporters to stay calm and leave the two teams to do their job. But for me as ambassador, I think my best wish is that my team beat Ghana."

Egypt sit top of Group E after matchday one following an away win over Congo, same weekend Ghana were held at home by Uganda.

The Pharaohs are eyeing a return to the World Cup since 1990, whereas the Black Stars are hoping to reach a fourth successive World Cup.