Egypt Demolishes South Sudan 5-0 as Hassan Emphasizes Team Depth Beyond Salah

Egypt bounced back in style during their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, securing a dominant 5-0 victory over South Sudan in Juba despite the absence of captain Mohamed Salah. Following a disappointing goalless draw against Angola in their Group B opener in Cairo, The Pharaohs found their scoring rhythm on Tuesday.

Mostafa Zico opened the scoring in the 36th minute by converting a cross from full-back Ahmed Fatouh, making up for an earlier missed opportunity. Shortly after the second half began, Marmoush doubled the lead to 2-0 with a calm finish past goalkeeper Majak Mawith, following a long ball from Mohanad Lashin. Marmoush, filling in for Salah after the Egyptian Football Association granted the captain permission to sit out due to injury risks on the artificial surface, notched his 13th international goal.

Substitute Ibrahim Adel extended the lead to 3-0 in the 75th minute before Marmoush netted his second of the match with seven minutes remaining. In stoppage time, Barcelona teenager Hamza Abdelkarim capped off the victory with his first international goal shortly after coming on for Marmoush.

Egypt coach Hossam Hassan expressed satisfaction with the team's performance amidst challenging conditions, highlighting the high temperatures and unfamiliar turf. Addressing Salah's absence, Hassan stated, "It is not right for a country of 120 million people for the national team to depend on one player." Egypt will return to action on October 4 to face South Africa in a friendly match in Cairo.