CAF suspensions weaken Egypt ahead of Nigeria clash
Egypt will be without midfielder Marwan Attia and attacker Salah Mohsen for their third-place match against Nigeria after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) handed both players suspensions.
The decision comes days before the playoff match and leaves the Pharaohs short-handed against the Super Eagles in Casablanca.
CAF decision and disciplinary action
CAF punished Attia for making a gesture suggesting the match officials had been bribed following Egypt’s 1–0 semi-final loss to Senegal.
Mohsen was sanctioned for making mocking gestures toward Senegalese journalists after the same match. Both actions were classified as unsportsmanlike conduct.
Setback for Hossam Hassan
The suspensions are a major blow to Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan, who is already dealing with multiple absences ahead of the fixture.
Egypt, seven-time African champions, will now face Nigeria without two important squad members in the playoff.
Match details
The third-place match will be played at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca on Saturday. Kick-off is scheduled for 5pm Nigeria time.
