The consequences of Egypt’s Round of 16 clash with Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup did not end with the final whistle, as the match also resulted in a disciplinary punishment against Egypt goalkeeper coach Saafan Al-Saghir.

FIFA decided to suspend Al-Saghir for two matches and impose a fine of more than $50,000 after he was sent off during the Argentina match following strong protests over refereeing decisions late in the game.

Saafan Al-Saghir’s Suspension Affects Egypt’s AFCON Qualifiers

According to the reports, Al-Saghir will miss Egypt’s first two matches in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Angola and South Sudan.

The two matches will take place during the international window running from September 21 to October 6, 2026, marking Egypt’s first official appearances after their World Cup campaign.

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The Argentina match witnessed a tense ending, with Al-Saghir strongly protesting several refereeing decisions before his confrontation with the officials eventually led to a red card.

Egypt Starts a New Chapter After the World Cup

Egypt, under head coach Hossam Hassan, will begin its 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign against Angola and South Sudan before facing Malawi twice in November. The Pharaohs will then meet Angola and South Sudan again in March 2027.

The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations will be hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, with the tournament scheduled to begin on June 19, 2027, and the final set for July 17.

Egypt’s coaching staff will therefore have to cope with Al-Saghir’s absence at the start of the continental qualifying campaign as the team turns the page following its 2026 World Cup appearance.