Egypt’s star trio face uncertainty ahead of Nigeria friendly

Egyptian football fans may have to do without three key stars, Mohamed Salah, Omar Marmoush, and Mostafa Mohamed, when the Pharaohs face Nigeria in a friendly scheduled for December 14 at Cairo Stadium.

The trio, who currently play in England and France, are reportedly likely to miss the match due to club commitments just ahead of the African Cup of Nations tournament.

Team sources revealed ongoing negotiations between Egypt’s coaching staff and the players’ clubs, but a strong tendency is emerging to exempt them from the friendly since they will be absent from their teams during the continental competition.

Coach Hossam Hassan is hoping to use the friendly to test alternative players in preparation for unexpected circumstances during the tournament. Egypt’s camp begins December 1, though players from Pyramids FC will join late due to league fixtures.

The AFCON campaign kicks off December 22 against Zimbabwe, with group games also against South Africa and Angola. Egypt’s staff aims to forge a well-balanced squad blending youth and experience, hoping to reclaim continental glory after several near-misses in recent years.