Egypt beats Puerto Rico in World Cup opening match

CAIRO – 1 July 2017: Egypt opens their participation in the Under-19 Basketball World Cup by beating Puerto Rico 67-65.

Egyptian players had the advantage of playing in front of their fans. They dominated the first half of the match, but Puerto Rico players tried to turn the table in the second half. Egypt kept up their rhythm, ending the match without any upsets from Puerto Rico.

Mohamed Youssif and Ahmed Khalaf scored the most points for the Egyptian side, with 16 and 13 points respectively, while Jesus Cruz scored 19 points for Puerto Rico.

In the same group, Lithuania defeated Germany 98-79. Egypt faces Lithuania Sunday while Germany faces Puerto Rico.

Cairo hosts the U19 Basketball World Cup from July 1-9 for the first time. Egyptian fans have placed their hopes in their team.

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi opened the World Cup ceremony, where the Egyptian band, Sharmoofers, performed in front of the crowd.