Egypt’s preparations for their FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Argentina were disrupted on Sunday after severe weather forced the team to abandon an outdoor training session in Atlanta.
According to a statement issued by the Egyptian Football Association (EFA), a thunderstorm swept across the city during training, compelling the squad to leave the pitch and complete the remainder of their session indoors.
The outdoor workout lasted less than an hour before adverse weather conditions made it unsafe to continue, with players moving to the gym to finish their preparations.
The interruption adds to a tournament that has already been affected by unpredictable weather, with thunderstorms causing delays and disruptions at several venues across the United States.
Despite the setback, Egypt remain fully focused on one of the biggest matches in the country’s football history as they prepare to face reigning world champions Argentina for a place in the quarter-finals.
The Pharaohs reached the Round of 16 for the first time after defeating Australia 4-2 in a penalty shoot-out following a 1-1 draw in their previous match.
Argentina also needed extra time to secure their place in the last 16, overcoming Cape Verde 3-2 in a dramatic Round of 32 encounter.
Egypt have enjoyed an impressive campaign in North America, remaining unbeaten in the group stage before claiming their historic knockout victory.
The seven-time African champions opened their tournament with a 1-1 draw against Belgium before recording a convincing 3-1 victory over New Zealand.
A further 1-1 draw with Iran secured second place in Group G and set up the knockout meeting with Australia, where Egypt made history by winning their first-ever World Cup knockout match.
Attention now turns to Tuesday’s showdown at Atlanta Stadium, where Egypt will attempt to pull off another major upset against Lionel Messi’s Argentina.
While the weather disruption briefly interrupted preparations, the Egyptian squad will be hoping it has little impact as they bid to continue their remarkable World Cup journey and reach the quarter-finals for the first time.
