Seven-time Africa Cup of Nations champions, Egypt, their star player and captain, Mohamed Salah, has been sidelined due to a hamstring injury, as confirmed by the Egyptian Football Association on Friday.
The 31-year-old Liverpool forward sustained the injury during Egypt’s recent match against Ghana, where he was substituted late in the first half of the 2-2 draw. This unfortunate development means Salah will miss crucial upcoming matches in the tournament.
The Egyptian Football Association’s statement clarified that Salah is set to miss the final group game against Cape Verde on Monday and any potential last-16 tie that may follow. Egypt, currently holding two draws in the tournament, must secure a victory against Cape Verde to ensure advancement to the knockout stage as they aim for a second-place finish in Group B.
Salah’s absence in these key matches raises concerns for Egypt’s performance in the Africa Cup of Nations. The national team’s hopes of securing their eighth title are now contingent on progressing to the quarter-finals, scheduled for February 2 or 3, where Salah could potentially make a comeback if Egypt advances to that stage.
As fans and football enthusiasts await the outcome of Egypt’s upcoming matches, the absence of their talismanic captain poses a significant challenge to the team’s aspirations in the tournament.
