By Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Africanews
Published on 2024-01-19 13:59:44
During Egypt’s Africa Cup of Nations game against Ghana on Thursday, Mohamed Salah had to leave the field due to an injury towards the end of the first half. The Liverpool star appeared to pull up and hold the back of his left thigh before sitting on the field while play continued. He then indicated that he could not continue when the team’s medical staff went to treat him.
Rui Vitória, the Egypt coach, expressed concern about the extent of Salah’s injury after the teams’ 2-2 draw in Group B, hoping that it is not too serious. Despite not stopping to speak to journalists after the game, Salah seemed to walk without difficulty.
In a somewhat unsportsmanlike gesture, some Ghana fans cheered as Salah, the most high-profile player in the tournament, left the field to be replaced by Mostafa Fathi in the second minute of first-half injury time. He handed the captain’s armband to defender Ahmed Hegazi. Ghana then scored their opening goal just a minute later, taking a 1-0 lead at halftime. However, Egypt ultimately twice came from behind to draw.
The “Pharaohs” have yet to win a game at the Africa Cup and are currently second in Group B with two points behind group leader Cape Verde. Cape Verde and Mozambique play their second game of the tournament Friday. Only the top two in each group are assured of advancing.
Salah’s injury is a concern for both Egypt and Liverpool, as he has been a key player for both teams. Hopefully, the injury is not too serious and he will be able to recover quickly.
