Liverpool and Egypt national team forward, Mohamed Salah, will be sidelined for Egypt's next two Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) games due to a muscle injury, as confirmed by the Egyptian Football Federation. The 31-year-old star will be unavailable for Egypt's final group stage match against Cape Verde on Monday and the subsequent round of 16 fixture, if his team advances from their group.

Salah's injury occurred during Egypt's draw with Ghana in their AFCON match on Thursday. In the first half, Salah was forced to leave the field just before half-time when he appeared to experience discomfort in his hamstring. He was subsequently replaced by Mostafa Fathi.

Despite the injury setback, Salah managed to make an impact in Egypt's opening AFCON game. He converted a penalty kick, further extending his national goalscoring record. With 54 goals in 98 appearances for Egypt, Salah is a crucial asset for his team.

Although Salah has achieved great success at the club level with Liverpool, including winning multiple domestic and international titles, he has yet to lift the AFCON trophy with Egypt. The national team finished as runners-up in both 2017 and 2021 editions of the tournament.

Egypt's next crucial encounter is against Cape Verde on Monday. A victory in this match would secure their spot in the knockout phase. However, they will have to go without the services of their star player Salah, which will undoubtedly be a blow to their attacking prowess.

The extent of Salah's injury and his potential return to the competition remains uncertain. Egypt will hope for his quick recovery as they aim to make a deep run in the AFCON and strive for ultimate glory in the prestigious tournament.