Egypt call up National Bank striker Osama Faisal to replace Salah for South Sudan AFCON qualifier

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 addition to the Pharaohs’ squad as coach Hossam Hassan prepares his side for the second round of the qualifying campaign.

Salah has been rested for the South Sudan encounter because of concerns over the artificial turf at the venue, prompting the technical team to bring in Faisal as an additional attacking option.

Faisal is expected to join the national team’s training camp on Sunday morning before travelling with the squad to South Sudan for Tuesday’s crucial qualifier.

Egypt will be looking to secure their first win of the qualifying campaign after being held to a goalless draw by Angola in their opening Group B fixture at the Cairo International Stadium.

The addition of Faisal gives Hassan another option in attack as Egypt seek to respond to the disappointing result against Angola and strengthen their position in the race for qualification.

The Pharaohs’ delegation is scheduled to leave Egypt at noon on Sunday for South Sudan, with preparations continuing ahead of Tuesday’s encounter.

Following the South Sudan qualifier, Egypt are also scheduled to face South Africa in a friendly in Cairo as part of their international window.