Egypt's national team has excluded Mohamed Salah from their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against South Sudan on 29 September, citing concerns over the artificial turf at the Juba stadium. The 34-year-old forward, who plays for Turkish club Trabzonspor, did not travel with the squad for Tuesday's match, according to a statement from the Egyptian Football Association (EFA). The decision follows a goalless draw with Angola on Friday, during which Salah was substituted by coach Hossam Hassan after 60 minutes. The EFA stated that the technical staff, led by Hassan, opted to rest Salah to mitigate potential injury risks associated with artificial surfaces, despite studies indicating no conclusive evidence of heightened injury rates on such pitches.
The EFA confirmed that the rest was agreed upon before the Angola match, with the technical staff prioritizing player welfare. Salah, who made 442 appearances and scored 257 goals during nine years at Liverpool, has already adapted to his new role at Trabzonspor, netting seven goals and providing two assists in six Turkish Super Lig games this season. His absence from the South Sudan qualifier marks a strategic shift for Egypt, which faces a critical group-stage encounter in Juba. The decision reflects ongoing debates about the safety of artificial turf, even as technological advancements have improved its quality over the years.
Coach Hossam Hassan emphasized the precautionary approach in the EFA's statement, highlighting the organization's commitment to protecting players. While some experts argue that modern artificial surfaces pose no greater risk than natural grass, the perception of increased injury vulnerability persists among athletes and medical staff. This stance aligns with Salah's recent history of managing workload, including his departure from Liverpool at the end of last season after a decade of service. His current form at Trabzonspor underscores his continued effectiveness, even as his international schedule is carefully managed.
The South Sudan match represents a pivotal moment for Egypt in the AFCON qualifiers, with the team aiming to secure progression in the group stage. Salah's exclusion, while unexpected, underscores the balance between competitive ambition and long-term player health. The EFA's transparency in explaining the decision highlights the growing emphasis on data-driven strategies in modern football, even as traditional concerns about playing surfaces remain a factor in tactical planning. The outcome of the Juba game will test Egypt's depth as they navigate the challenges of international competition.