AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Mohamed Salah leaves Egypt camp after Angola draw amid dressing-room tensions

Mohamed Salah has left Egypt’s national team camp before the Pharaohs’ 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against South Sudan, with reports of growing tensions following Friday’s goalless draw with Angola.

The former Liverpool forward will not travel for the second qualifier after being excused on medical advice because of concerns about playing on an artificial pitch in South Sudan, the Egyptian Football Association said.

The announcement came less than a day after Salah was substituted in the 61st minute of Egypt’s opening qualifier at the Cairo International Stadium, where the Pharaohs were frustrated by a 0-0 draw.

Reports of dressing-room frustration

It is suggested that the atmosphere inside the dressing room became tense after the final whistle, with head coach Hossam Hassan expressing his disappointment at the result in what was the team’s first competitive match since the 2026 World Cup.

According to the report, Hassan criticised several players for moments during the game, including captain Salah, as he made clear his frustration at dropping points against Angola.

The reports add that Salah chose not to confront the coaching staff after the match and instead contacted Egyptian Football Association president Hany Abo Rida to request permission to miss the South Sudan fixture.

The report said the request had already been communicated before the start of the training camp and was linked to the long-standing medical recommendation against playing on artificial surfaces.

Haitham Hassan also unhappy

The reported frustration was not limited to Salah.

Yallakora said winger Haitham Hassan was also unhappy after being withdrawn early in the second half, although the player did not take any action beyond showing his displeasure.

Salah was replaced by Ahmed Sayed “Zizo” in the 61st minute, while Hamza Abdelkarim came on for Haitham Hassan a minute later.

Tactical explanation from Hossam Hassan

After the match, Hossam Hassan insisted Salah’s substitution had been a tactical decision rather than one linked to fitness or injury.

Egypt will now travel to Juba without their captain as they seek their first victory of the qualifying campaign against South Sudan.