The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) has officially confirmed that star forward Mohamed Salah will be rested for the national team's upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against South Sudan. According to the EFA, the primary motivation behind this decision is the condition of the playing surface at the venue.

Officials expressed concerns regarding the artificial turf currently installed at the stadium, noting that such surfaces increase the likelihood of soft-tissue injuries and other physical complications for professional athletes. By opting to keep Salah out of the lineup, the association aims to prioritize the player's long-term health and fitness, ensuring he remains available for future club and international commitments. While Salah is a central figure in the Egyptian squad, the team management has determined that the potential risks of the artificial surface outweigh the benefits of his participation in this specific match. No further details regarding the team's tactical adjustments in his absence have been provided at this time.