Egyptians Force Playoff

Heading into today's clash with Algeria, Egypt need to win by three goals to advance to the World Cup. Algeria, meanwhile, just needed a win, draw, or one goal loss to earn a berth. There was still a chance, though, that qualification would not end today for these two sides, as an Egypt win by two goals would force a one game playoff in Sudan on Wednesday. With so much on the line, today's game did not disappoint, as the two sides combined for a tense game and a riveting finish.

It was a dream start for the Pharaohs in front of a packed Cairo International Stadium, as Amr Zaki scored in the second minute. The hosts, however, were unable to find the critical second goal for the next 93 minutes despite persistent attacking, and the Algerian faithful in attendance grew more and more excited as the match neared its end. Fortunately for the Egyptians, though, there were 6 minutes of added time, and that last minute proved to be crucial.

In the 96th minute, a defensive clearance by Algeria knocked the ball just outside the box. The ensuing chip into the area was met by the head of substitute Emad Moteab, whose header across the goal bounced just beyond the outstretched hands of goalkeeper Lounes Gaouaoui and into the side netting. The goal sent the stadium and Egyptian bench into a frenzy and left the Algerians in disbelief. The final whistle sounded soon after, setting up a one game, winner-take-all playoff in Sudan on Wednesday.

As dramatic as the finish was to this match, expect just as much intensity and excitement in the playoff, as these two regional rivals square off for one spot in South Africa.