By Amr Shaheen BBC Sport, Cairo

Ahmed Fathy is one of Egypt's key players

Egypt's youth manager Hassan Shehata has said his team is determined to become the first African side to lift the World Youth Championship trophy (WYC).

The African champions won the bronze medal at the last edition of the WYC played in Argentina in 2001.

"I see no other choice for this team but to win this title," Shehata told the BBC Sport website.

"We won the African title in Burkina Faso under very harsh circumstances and I am confident that my players can handle the pressure at the world championship."

Egypt begin their quest to qualify for the tournament's knockout stage with their opening Group D game against Colombia on Saturday. Subsequent games will be played against England and Japan.

My players can handle the pressure Egypt manager Hassan Shehata

With several Egyptians living and working in the UAE, Shehata said his team has the added advantage of 'home' support.

"There are more than 300,000 Egyptians living in Dubai; it is going to be like playing at home," he said.

Egypt's trip to the UAE has not been without controversy, as African Champions League finalists Ismaili were denied the chance to use two key players - Ahmed Fathy and Abd Rabu - in their forthcoming tie against Nigeria's Enyimba.

Shehata said he understands Ismaili's needs but insists that national interests had to take priority.

"I know Ismaili need their players but they should understand that the national team comes first."

Despite his confidence in Egypt's ability, Shehata refused to underestimate any of his Group D opponents.