Mohamed Salah is reportedly set to start on the bench. Egypt look to manage his workload in their final AFCON group-stage clash against Angola.
The Liverpool forward has been Egypt’s standout performer at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. He played a decisive role in their opening two matches. Salah struck deep into stoppage time to seal a dramatic 2-1 comeback win over Zimbabwe. He then calmly converted a penalty three days later to secure another crucial victory against South Africa.
Those contributions have helped Egypt top Group B with a perfect six points. They have already booked their place in the knockout stages ahead of the final group game.
However, the Pharaohs have one more game remaining in their group on Monday. They face Angola in a game widely seen as a foregone conclusion.
As a result, a number of key players could be rested. Head coach Hossam Hassan is looking to integrate new names into his lineup.
According to Egyptian journalist Ismael Mahmoud, Salah is expected to be benched against Angola. This is to recharge his batteries for the round of 16.
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Egypt's lineup on Monday could see several changes. Ibrahim Adel or Ahmed Mostafa Zizo might fill in for Salah on the right-hand side.
Despite that, Hassan believes that his handpicked 28-man squad can deliver whenever needed and hinted at possible rotation.
"The Angola game is important for us," Hassan said in the press conference before the game. "Of course, we will play to win.
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"In the last two games, 19 players out of 28 have featured. I think that shows how much trust I have in my players and their ability.
"I encourage fans to believe in this squad as much as I do."
Hassan then went on to talk about their potential round-of-16 opponents, saying: "It does not matter who we face.
"I said the same thing before the World Cup draw. I think champions must be ready at all times, and we are ready. We will respect any opponent we face, and we will play our football."
