Why Mohamed Salah Is Missing Egypt's Next Match
Mohamed Salah has been left out of Egypt's squad to face South Sudan due to the match pitch. Find out why the forward is missing the fixture.
Quick facts
- Mohamed Salah made 442 appearances and scored 257 goals during nine years at Liverpool before joining Trabzonspor.
- The Egypt national team played a goalless draw against Angola in Cairo on 26 September 2026.
- Egypt's Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against South Sudan is scheduled for 29 September 2026.
Why it matters
Player management on artificial surfaces remains a frequent topic of debate in international football, particularly for senior athletes balancing demanding club and country schedules. While modern turf technology continues to improve, national team staff often prioritize preventative rest to manage long-term fitness. Details regarding internal team discussions beyond official statements remain unconfirmed.
Mohamed Salah has been left out of Egypt's squad to face South Sudan in an upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifier because the match will be played on artificial turf. According to the Egyptian Football Association (EFA), the decision was made to rest the forward and protect him from the playing surface in Juba.
The 34-year-old started Friday's goalless draw against Angola in Cairo but was substituted by coach Hossam Hassan after an hour. The EFA stated that an agreement was struck between the technical staff and Salah before the Angola match that he would sit out the South Sudan fixture on 29 September 2026. Reports from outlets like Goal.com also noted discussions surrounding the player's departure from the camp, while the association maintained the move was planned ahead of time.
What happened in the Egypt camp?
The decision to rest Salah comes immediately after Egypt's opening qualifier in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations campaign. Coach Hossam Hassan stated that his substitution during the match against Angola was purely tactical and that the captain was not carrying an injury. However, reports highlighted questions raised over team dynamics following the match.
Why is the artificial pitch an issue?
The EFA specifically cited the artificial turf in Juba as the reason for leaving Salah behind. While studies show no definitive statistical evidence of a greater injury risk on modern artificial surfaces, sporting staff often manage older players carefully to mitigate perceived joint and muscle strain.
What are Salah's current club stats?
Salah left Liverpool at the end of the previous season after a nine-year tenure. He currently plays for Turkish club Trabzonspor, where he has recorded seven goals and two assists in six Turkish Super Lig matches this season.
Frequently asked questions
What happened with Mohamed Salah and Egypt?
Mohamed Salah was left out of Egypt's squad to play South Sudan because the match takes place on an artificial pitch, with the Egyptian Football Association stating the decision was made to protect the player.
Why is Mohamed Salah missing the South Sudan game?
According to the Egyptian Football Association, the coaching staff and Salah agreed prior to the Angola match that he would not play on the artificial turf surface in South Sudan.
Who is the coach of the Egypt national team?
Hossam Hassan serves as the head coach of the Egypt national team, leading the technical staff during the recent Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixtures.
What club does Mohamed Salah currently play for?
Mohamed Salah plays for Turkish Super Lig club Trabzonspor, having joined them after leaving Liverpool at the end of the previous season.
When is the South Sudan versus Egypt match scheduled?
The Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match between South Sudan and Egypt is scheduled to take place on 29 September 2026.
Did Mohamed Salah play against Angola?
Yes, Mohamed Salah started Egypt's opening qualifier against Angola in Cairo on 26 September 2026, and was substituted by coach Hossam Hassan after playing for one hour.
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Last checked Sep 27, 2026 at 6:30 AM. Trends move fast, so details may change. How we work
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