Egypt have called up National Bank striker Osama Faisal to replace Mohamed Salah ahead of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against South Sudan.
The Egyptian Football Association confirmed Faisal’s inclusion as head coach Hossam Hassan prepares his squad for their second Group B fixture.
Salah has been rested for Tuesday’s encounter because of concerns over the artificial playing surface at the venue in South Sudan, prompting the technical staff to add Faisal to the squad.
The National Bank striker is expected to join Egypt’s training camp on Sunday morning before travelling with the team for the qualifier.
Faisal’s inclusion gives Hassan another attacking option as Egypt look to respond to their disappointing opening result.
The Pharaohs were held to a goalless draw by Angola at the Cairo International Stadium in their first Group B match, leaving them with one point from the opening fixture.
Egypt will now travel to South Sudan knowing that victory would strengthen their position in the group and provide a positive response to the draw against Angola.
The Egyptian delegation is scheduled to depart at noon on Sunday as preparations continue for Tuesday’s match.
Following the South Sudan qualifier, Egypt are also due to face South Africa in a friendly in Cairo as part of their current international window.
For Hassan, the immediate priority will be finding a way to improve Egypt’s attacking output against South Sudan, with Faisal now among the options available to him.
