Morsi supporters, opponents stage sit-ins as Egypt braces for more protests

CAIRO – Thousands of supporters and opponents of Egypt's embattled Islamist president are holding rival sit-ins on the eve of what are expected to be massive opposition-led protests aimed at forcing Mohammed Morsi's ouster.

The demonstrations early Saturday follow days of deadly clashes in a string of cities across the country that left at least seven people dead, including an American, and hundreds injured.

Cairo, which saw large pro- and anti-Morsi rallies on Friday, was uncharacteristically quiet Saturday despite the sit-ins as the city braced for more potentially violent opposition protests.

Opposition groups have vowed to bring out millions Sunday to force Morsi from office. The rallies are timed to coincide with the anniversary of Morsi's taking power as Egypt's first freely elected leader.