In a major setback for Egypt’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign, influential midfielder Emam Ashour will miss the crucial last-16 clash against DR Congo due to a concussion sustained during a celebratory backflip in training.

Ashour, a standout performer in the group stage victories over Ghana and Cape Verde, landed on his head while jubilantly celebrating a practice goal. The 25-year-old, who plays for Al-Ahly, was promptly attended to by team doctor Mohamed Abou El-Ela and later underwent medical examinations, requiring 24 hours of observation.

This injury compounds Egypt’s challenges as they are already without captain Mohamed Salah and goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy. Despite these setbacks, Egypt who secured a second-place finish in their group, all three matches ending in 2-2 draws against Mozambique, Ghana, and Cape Verde will remain confident of progressing.

Their opponents, DR Congo, also progressed with three draws, setting the stage for a compelling last-16 encounter. The absence of Emam Ashour adds to the adversity as Egypt aims to claim their first AFCON title since 2010.