“Of course we are concerned and we hope it is not too serious”. Rui Vitoria, the Portuguese coach selected for Egypt, made the announcement moments after his team’s draw (2-2) against Ghana. A vague release summarizing the growing concern surrounding the state of Mohamed Salah’s health. Twice behind, the Pharaohs finally held on thanks to Mustafa Mohamed’s goal early in the last quarter of the hour. More than the result and Egypt’s current second place in Group B, it is Mohamed Salah’s injury that is at the heart of the news this Friday morning.
Hit on the back of the left thigh just before the break, the Egypt captain eventually had to give way to Mostafa Mohamed Fathy just before the break. A terrible blow for Egypt, without its star in the second half and maybe more… Reported by Jem Rajinda Sandesh, the Liverpool executive’s hamstring injury could keep him out for longer than expected. A disaster scenario for Egypt in search of a new crown for the African Cup of Nations. Also a big blow for Jurgen Klopp and the Reds, who currently lead the English Championship by two narrow points ahead of Manchester City and Aston Villa.
Liverpool trembles, Egypt hopes for good news!
Author of 18 goals and 9 assists in 27 matches across all competitions, Salah is an essential pillar in Liverpool’s current dynamic. So, if the Reds had already prepared for his absence until February 17 – in the event of the final for Egypt at this CAN – the period of unavailability of the former AS Roma player or even Chelsea could ultimately prove to be much longer. A big blow to a Liverpool team already missing several players (Joel Matip, Stefan Bajsetic, Thiago Alcantara, Kostas Tsimikas, Andrew Robertson, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ben Doak and Dominic Sobozalai are currently injured while Wataru Ando takes part in the Asian Cup .Japan).
While waiting to learn more about the nature of his injury and hence the duration of his absence, Egypt may also be trembling. Saved by their captain during the draw against Mozambique in extra time, the Pharaohs may, in fact, lose their main asset in the hunt for a new continental title. “We don’t know what the problem is yet. I hope it’s not a big problem. It was a difficult time for us as we could only make two chances in the second half. I think it’s not dangerous, but we’ll see.”, Rui Vitoria added to reporters. Under pressure and worried about the health of their captain, Egypt, meanwhile, must secure their first win of the competition against current Group B leaders Cape Verde next Monday…
Pub. The
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