Egypt coach Cuper says Gyan's absence will affect Ghana

Egypt National team head coach Hector Cuper believes the absence of Ghana’s skipper Asamoah Gyan will affect the Black Stars during the World Cup qualifier in Alexandria.

The Pharaohs host Ghana in their second Group E game at Borg El-Arab stadium in the Mediterranean city on Sunday.

Ghana will have to do without Asamoah Gyan and Juventus Kwadwo Asamoah, ruled out of the clash because of injury.

“The absence of Gyan will affect Ghana,” Argentinean boss Cuper told a TV program Via ahramonline.

“Their frontline will be missing a lot without him.”

Cuper said a calm approach to the game would be key for Egypt to perform well and emerge winners.

“The players are fully concentrated and they are technically and physically fit for the game,” he said.

“They need to be calm in the game and to make light of any pressure. We will try to win and continue our winning run in the qualifiers.”

Egypt launched their Group E campaign with a 2-1 away win over Congo to top the group with three points, two ahead of second-placed Ghana who were held to a disappointing goalless draw at home to Uganda.