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Iceland's bid for the key win without Palmarsson

This is no longer a matter of advancing through or being knocked out, as coach Kristjansson put it. It's about honor

Iceland displayed different quality in all of their four games so far. Starting with a top-level performance with the French, continuing with an average game against Algeria, below-average against Sweden, and a disaster with the Czechs. Kristjansson's side was the heavy favorite of that match, especially because Jicha was only getting back, but Iceland's performance fell short of expectations. It seemed like the Czech Republic was the only team actually playing the game.

- I think it's more than obvious we are unhappy with the performance against the Czechs and I'm convinced that is precisely what will get us out on the floor against Egypt stronger than ever. This is no longer a question of getting through or not; it's a matter of honor - Iceland's coach said.

Iceland did worst when Palmarsson wasn't in the game, just like in the previous games. That was definitely the greatest problem for the coaches since the medical team confirmed that Aron won't be available for the Egypt game. The reason is a blow to the head that apparently resulted in a concussion. The broken bone in his face was not the problem this time.

- I think we need to get to spot three anyway. It's either a downfall or the light at the end of the tunnel for us - Kristjansson said and added:

- It should all come down to us. Egypt have the atmosphere as if they were playing home, but I think that the individual quality is better on our team. We also need to display character.

There's another thing that could help Iceland today. If Egypt win today, they will most likely be set to meet Denmark in Round of 16. But if they lose, they are to meet Germany, which should be a bit easier. Coach Ragab said Egypt won't be choosing their opponent:

- I'm focused only on Iceland now and don't have any wish to choose my next opponent. I'm convinced the players will do their best like always.

The question is, which players will those be? If Ragab decides to rest his key players, first and foremost right back El-Ahmar and goal keeper Handawy, there won't be much quality left on the team. Also, Ramadan, who is very important in defense, might not play with an ankle injury. The fact he's got a few extra pounds didn't help when he sprained that ankle in the Sweden game.

- I think our game got much worse n the key moments of the game because of that injury. I was a bit disappointed that things turned out like that - goal keeper Handawy said. He conceded most points in the final stage of the game, after Ramadan got injured,

As much as he will be missed in Egypt's defense, Palmarsson will be missed in Iceland's offense. The key to this game could therefore be making up for those two players (if Ramadan misses the game too), or which team will do it better. In case Egypt's key defender does play today, Iceland could be faced with a wall not even Sweden could get past easily, despite being the best team in Qatar up to this point.

Petterson scored only one goal in the disaster that was Iceland's clash with Sweden. He recorded six against Algeria and 4 against France and CzR. Three unders and one over, that's his stats, but there are a few reasons for this bet now. The No.1 is Palmarsson, who took 12, 11, 11, and 7 shots in previous matches, missing the game. That means Petterson will be the key shooter at Iceland today. He is healthy and capable of spending a lot of time on the floor, especially since Atlason struggles with an injury all the time. Petterson will most definitely spend a lot of time in the game today since this is the key match for Iceland and he the deeper-set better, aggressive Egyptian defense should suit him better. Algeria are similar to Egypt in that respect and he managed to score 6 goals despite Palmarsson having a very productive day. I expect him to score at least that much today, especially given the fact Egypt's key defender sprained his ankle the last game. Sine Egypt will be better off with a loss today, I expect Petterson to be the dominant Icelander.