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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.
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.
[DailyTrust]