The Egyptian Football Association has announced that Al Bank Al Ahly forward Osama Faisal will join the national team squad to replace captain Mohamed Salah. The team is currently preparing for its upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations second-round qualifier against South Sudan.
Salah departed the Pharaohs’ camp following a goalless draw against Angola at Cairo International Stadium. While reports surfaced regarding a disagreement between Salah and head coach Hossam Hassan over a 60th-minute substitution during the match, the Egyptian Football Association released an official statement clarifying the situation.
According to the football body, the decision to rest Salah and leave him out of the trip to Juba was made to protect the forward and avoid playing him on the artificial turf pitch in South Sudan.
Squad Preparations for South Sudan Match
Egypt’s technical staff, led by Hossam Hassan, finalized training sessions in Cairo before heading to the airport. The delegation is being led by Egyptian FA vice president Khaled El-Dirandaly ahead of Tuesday’s 3 p.m. fixture.
The squad is looking to secure its first victory in the qualifying campaign after opening with a 0-0 draw against Angola. Meanwhile, South Sudan enters the match following a 2-1 defeat against Malawi in their opening fixture.
An Opportunity for Osama Faisal
The inclusion of young striker Osama Faisal provides the national team with fresh attacking depth in Salah’s absence. Faisal has earned his spot following strong performances with Al Bank Al Ahly, drawing the attention of the national coaching staff.
The forward has joined up with the squad ahead of the flight to Juba, giving the technical staff an additional option as Egypt aims for a strong result away from home.
