Record seven-time champions Egypt were dealt a major blow on Friday as captain Mohamed Salah was ruled out of two Africa Cup of Nations games with a hamstring injury, while holders.
The Egyptian Football Association confirmed in a statement that Liverpool star Salah would not be able to return for his country unless they reach the quarter-finals at the tournament.
The 31-year-old came off late in the first half of the Pharaohs’ 2-2 draw with Ghana on Thursday.
He will therefore sit out Monday’s final group game against Cape Verde and any last-16 tie that would follow that.
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After drawing their opening two games, Egypt need to beat Cape Verde to be guaranteed to advance in second place in Group B.
That would tee up a last-16 tie in San Pedro on January 28, while they could also potentially qualify as one of the best third-placed teams.
Salah will therefore only feature again at the competition if Egypt make it to a quarter-final on February 2 or 3.
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