Egypt claim Italy scalp

Egypt stunned World Cup holders Italy as they secured a 1-0 victory in their Confederations Cup clash.

World Cup holders stunned in Confederations Cup

Egypt stunned World Cup holders Italy as they secured a 1-0 victory in their Confederations Cup clash in Johannesburg. Mohamed Homos scored the only goal of the game five minutes before the interval to condemn Marcello Lippi's side to their first-ever defeat to an African team. Italy only had themselves to blame for falling behind as they left Homos unmarked to score with a powerful header from Mohamed Aboutrika's perfect inswinging corner. The shock result means that the second qualification place in Group B remains in the balance going into the final round of matches. Brazil are certain to progress having beaten USA 3-0 earlier in the day and they will have a major say on who joins them as they meet the Italians. The USA, who still have an outside chance of progressing despite losing both of their opening games, face Hassan Shehata's side on Sunday. Many of Egypt's players and coach Shehata were in tears at the final whistle as they were overcome by the magnitude of their achievement. Goalkeeper Essam Al Hadari produced an inspired performance and made a string of superb saves in the second half to preserve his side's lead. Vincenzo Iaquinta hit the crossbar in the closing stages but Egypt were not to be denied what will be remembered as a momentous victory.