Hossam Hassan Says Salah Rested Against South Sudan Over Artificial Pitch

Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan said the technical staff chose to rest captain Mohamed Salah for the match against South Sudan because of the artificial playing surface.

Hassan explained that the pitch was behind the decision to keep Salah out, with the coaching staff prioritising the forward’s safety.

The Egypt coach stressed that protecting players comes first when making selection decisions.

His explanation framed Salah’s absence as a precaution linked to the playing conditions, rather than a footballing decision.