The Egyptian Football Association has confirmed that Mohamed Salah will miss two Africa Cup of Nations matches due to a back injury.

Mohamed Salah, the star striker for Liverpool and the Egyptian national team, will unfortunately be sidelined for two matches at the Africa Cup of Nations due to a back injury sustained during the match against Ghana. The Egyptian Football Association released a statement confirming the news, which will undoubtedly disappoint both Salah’s country and his club.

During Egypt’s 2-2 draw with Ghana, Salah suffered a back strain that forced him to leave the pitch before the first half was completed. There were initial concerns that the injury could be more serious and potentially impact Liverpool’s title bid as well as Egypt’s chances of winning the AFCON trophy this year.

However, the Egyptian FA clarified that Salah’s injury is not long-term and should not prevent him from participating in the quarter-finals, assuming Egypt advances that far in the tournament. The statement revealed that Salah underwent x-rays, which showed a strain in his posterior muscle. As a result, he will miss the upcoming matches against Cape Verde and the Round of 16 match if Egypt qualifies.

In other news, Cape Verde has already secured their spot in the next stage of the tournament after defeating Mozambique 3-0 in Friday’s game. Egypt’s next match is scheduled for Monday, January 22, while the Round of 16 matches will take place between January 27 and 29.