Hossam Hassan Says Salah Rested Against South Sudan Over Artificial Turf

Egypt coach Hossam Hassan said the decision to rest captain Mohamed Salah for the match against South Sudan was prompted by concerns over the artificial playing surface.

Hassan explained that the coaching staff preferred not to field Salah on the synthetic turf, placing the player’s safety at the centre of their decision.

The Egypt coach stressed that protecting players comes first, outlining the priority behind the staff’s approach to Salah’s participation.

His explanation framed the decision as a precaution linked to the pitch conditions, rather than a reflection of Salah’s role as team captain.