Mohamed Salah rested, Mostafa Ziko's single goal makes Egypt beat Russia

In this match, Egypt's main star Mohamed Salah was not played and was rested by coach Hossam Hassan. (Instagram @mosalah)

JAKARTA - The Egyptian national team began preparations for the World Cup with a narrow 1-0 victory over Russia in a friendly match at the Cairo International Stadium on Friday.

In this match, Egypt's main star Mohamed Salah was not played and was rested by coach Hossam Hassan.

Egypt's only goal of the victory was scored by Mostafa Ziko in the second half. Egypt still put out a number of key players even without Salah.

Manchester City's Omar Marmoush is expected to start, while the match also marks the return of centre-back Mohamed Abdelmoneim after a long absence through injury.

The friendly match, as reported by Antara, was tight from the start of the match. Egypt and Russia both had difficulty breaking down the opponent's defense, so there were few dangerous opportunities. This situation kept the score at a goalless draw until the first half ended.

The deadlock finally broke in the 64th minute. Substitute Mostafa Zico successfully recorded his name on the scoreboard through a header after receiving a mature pass from right back Mohamed Hany. The ball was not anticipated by Russian goalkeeper Stanislav Agkatsev and the score became 1-0.

Entering the final phase of the match, Egypt was under pressure from Russia who tried to catch up. However, the home team's back line was disciplined and successfully maintained the lead until the final whistle blew.

In addition to securing the victory, this match was also used by the Egyptian coach to test the depth of the squad by making up to 10 player substitutions throughout the match.

The victory over Russia is sure to boost Egypt's confidence before departing for the United States to play the final friendly match against Brazil in Cleveland on June 7.

After that, The Pharaohs will start their World Cup Group G campaign by facing Belgium in Seattle on June 16.