The Pharaohs finish the FIFA window with that match after Tuesday’s AFCON 2027 qualifier in South Sudan. Al Ahly argue a third fixture would leave too little time for rest before their derby against Zamalek.
Six Al Ahly players are in the Egypt squad: Mostafa Shobeir, Marwan Attia, Mohamed Hany, Imam Ashour, Ahmed Sayed Zizo and Ali Mahmoud.
Mohamed Salah has already left camp and will not play in Juba because of the artificial pitch. Defender Mohamed Abdelmonem of Nice has also been advised not to travel after cruciate ligament surgery.
Egypt drew 0-0 with Angola on Friday. They fly to Juba for Matchday 2 against South Sudan, then face Pitso Mosimane’s Bafana Bafana if the friendly goes ahead as planned.
There has been no public confirmation from the Egyptian Football Association that the request will be granted. Hassan’s staff must first get three points in South Sudan with a reduced group.
Al Ahly’s priority is the Cairo derby after the international break. Egypt’s is qualifying from Group B. The two calendars now collide over one October date.