AFCONQ Qualifiers: Ziyech, Salah Absent as Teams Gear Up for Crucial Matches
The AFCON 2023 Qualifiers are heating up, with crucial matches scheduled for the upcoming international break. However, fans will be disappointed to learn that two of Africa's biggest stars, Hakim Ziyech and Mohamed Salah, will be missing in action due to injuries.
Ziyech's Absence a Blow for Morocco
Morocco, aiming to continue their impressive run on the international stage, will have to navigate their qualifiers without their key playmaker, Hakim Ziyech. The Chelsea winger, who was instrumental in Morocco's recent success, picked up an injury during a Premier League match and will be sidelined for the upcoming games.
His absence leaves a significant gap in the Moroccan squad, but manager Walid Regragui will be hoping his other attacking options can step up and fill the void. The Atlas Lions face Liberia and Burundi in their upcoming qualifiers, and will be hoping to secure vital points to cement their place at the top of their group.
Salah Out for Egypt, But Optimism Remains
Meanwhile, Egypt, aiming to defend their continental title, will be without their talisman, Mohamed Salah. The Liverpool forward suffered a muscle injury during a recent match, and will be unavailable for the upcoming qualifiers against Niger and Guinea.
Despite the absence of their star player, Egypt remain confident in their ability to secure victories. With a wealth of talented players in their squad, manager Rui Vitória will be looking to the likes of Mostafa Mohamed and Trezeguet to lead the attack in Salah's absence.
AFCON 2023 Qualifiers: A Time for Others to Shine
The absence of Ziyech and Salah presents an opportunity for other players to showcase their talents and step into the spotlight. This could lead to the emergence of new stars on the African football scene, adding to the already exciting landscape of the continent's football.
With a number of crucial matches on the horizon, the AFCON 2023 Qualifiers promises to be a thrilling spectacle. Fans will be eager to see how teams adapt to the absence of their star players and who will emerge as the dominant forces in the race for qualification.