The question of whether Mohamed Salah will play is dominating the build-up to South Africa’s international friendly against Egypt in Cairo on 4 October 2026.
The match will bring Bafana Bafana’s international window to a close, with both sides using the fixture as part of their preparations while pursuing success on the continent.
South Africa coach Pitso Mosimane is expected to make changes to his line-up, with several established players potentially rested and fringe members of his 30-man squad given an opportunity.
The uncertainty surrounding Salah has added another layer of interest. The Liverpool forward missed Egypt’s second 2027 AFCON qualifier, although the reason for his absence has not been established.
Egypt manager Hossam Hassan initially said Salah would not play against South Sudan because the match was being hosted on an artificial surface, according to Goal.
Hassan later changed his explanation. As reported by KickOff, he said the forward had been left out because of “personal circumstances”.
With no definitive update, some reports suggest Salah will miss the meeting with Bafana Bafana altogether, while others remain confident he will feature.
The conflicting accounts have also led to criticism of Hassan and the way the situation has been handled.
Mosimane seeks a meaningful test
Mosimane has explained why the fixture fits his broader plans for South Africa. According to IOL, the coach is determined to avoid taking what he described as the “easy route” by choosing a match in which victory is effectively guaranteed.
The manager has pointed to his first spell in charge as a warning. During that period, Bafana Bafana failed to qualify for the 2012 AFCON after drawing 0-0 with Sierra Leone in their final qualifier.
South Africa finished behind Niger on head-to-head results and Mosimane subsequently left his position amid strong criticism from several quarters.
The encounter with Egypt therefore offers a demanding test, regardless of whether Salah is involved, while also allowing Mosimane to assess players who have not yet featured under him.
Several players in line for a chance
Ronwen Williams could be among those rested, which would open the door for either Sipho Chaine or Ricardo Goss to start in goal.
Six other members of the squad have not yet played under the new coach: Fawaaz Basadien, Thabang Matuludi, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Puso Dithejane, Tashreeq Matthews and Shandre Campbell.
Mosimane is expected to announce his team in the coming days.
The match will take place at Cairo International Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 20:00 South Africa time on 4 October 2026. The details are correct according to the SAFA website.
