FIFA fines Egypt over prohibited World Cup game

FIFA has fined Egypt's football federation 50,000 Swiss francs ($50,000) for playing a World Cup warm-up game during a prohibited period.

No international friendlies were allowed from 21-27 May which was a mandatory rest week for World Cup players.

FIFA says the mandatory rest week was "in order to protect players before the final competition".

On 25 May, Egypt played Kuwait and drew 1-1 in Kuwait City.

Top striker Mohamed Salah did not play for Egypt as he was in Kiev, Ukraine, with Liverpool preparing for the Champions League final against Real Madrid the following day. The Champions League final is exempted from the FIFA rule.

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Egypt played only its third World Cup in Russia this summer, after also qualifying for the finals in 1934 and 1990.

They failed to advance to the knockout stage after losing all of their games despite having superstar Salah in the squad.

The country's sports minister announced last week it was planning a bid to host the 2030 tournament.