England to face Egypt in March

21 December 2009 15:21

England will take on Egypt at Wembley on March 3 as part of head coach Fabio Capello's meticulous preparation for the World Cup Finals.

The Three Lions have been paired with Algeria in Group C next summer and Capello is keen to face another North African side before the tournament begins in South Africa in June.

Algeria defeated Egypt in a controversial World Cup play-off last month to book their place in the finals.

Capello is likely to use the match to run the rule over several potential members of his World Cup squad before he settles on his final 23 in June.

"The match will be significant for Capello and his England players, having been drawn alongside Egypt's fellow North Africans Algeria in Group C at the World Cup," read a statement from the Football Association.

"A third successive triumph over Egypt would also be a special landmark for England, with the victories column currently reading 499 for the Three Lions."

England are also likely to face Mexico in another friendly in May, before taking on Japan while at a pre-tournament training camp in Austria.

Source: DSG