In a significant development ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the Super Eagles of Nigeria have received a major boost with the news that Egypt's star forward, Mohamed Salah, will miss the upcoming pre-tournament friendly between the two nations.
Salah's Release Date Confirmed by Liverpool
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed that Mohamed Salah will join the Egyptian national team on December 15, one day after the Pharaohs are scheduled to face Nigeria. The crucial friendly match is set for December 14 at the Cairo International Stadium, serving as a final tune-up for both teams before the continental showpiece in Morocco.
Slot explained the decision, highlighting the ongoing dialogue between club, country, and player. "It’s the 15th of December, but as always in these situations, there is a player involved, there is the nation involved - Egypt in this situation - and the club, and there are always talks about what is best for all three of us," the Liverpool boss told Liverpool TV.
AFCON 2025 Schedule and Squad Deadlines
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will be held in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has mandated that all 24 participating countries submit their final squad lists by December 11, ten days before the tournament kicks off.
Egypt, under head coach Hossam Hassan, will be led by Salah as they aim to extend their record of seven AFCON titles. They are placed in Group B alongside South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe.
Implications for Nigeria and Other Stars
While Salah's absence is a relief for the Nigerian defence, the Super Eagles' coach, Eric Chelle, might also be without some of his key players for the friendly. European clubs are permitted to retain players until the FIFA release date of December 15, potentially affecting the availability of stars like Victor Osimhen.
Nigeria, drawn in Group C with Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda, is chasing its fourth AFCON crown. The team was runner-up in the 2023 edition, losing to host nation Cote d'Ivoire in the final.
In other squad news, former Arsenal academy defender Ryan Alebiosu has been cleared to represent Nigeria at the tournament. The right-back, who has impressed in the EFL Championship, is included in the preliminary squad after resolving a passport issue.
