Overview
- Mohamed Salah set up Emam Ashour’s goal in Egypt’s 1-1 draw with Belgium before being substituted in the 76th minute.
- The late change prompted public speculation of a falling-out between the coach and his captain because the game was still level when Salah was taken off.
- Coach Hossam Hassan rejected those rumours, saying selections are made professionally, that he has no favourites, and that Salah is disciplined and supportive of coaching decisions.
- Salah was replaced by Hamza Abdelkarim, a highly rated teenage midfielder who is on Barcelona’s books.
- With Group G teams level on one point, Egypt now prepare to face New Zealand at BC Place and will aim to secure the win the squad and fans expect.