The Zamalek defender dislocated his shoulder during the Pharaohs' training on Sunday morning; a serious injury that he will nurse for about two months.

Fathallah has been one of Egypt's pillars in defense, having formed the African champions' backline along with Hani Saied and Wael Gomaa in recent matches.

Hassan Shehata's side, who lie second in Group C on four points, have to win both qualifying games to keep their qualification hopes alive.

Egypt will play their next qualifier at Rwanda on Saturday, and their trip to Zambia will be on October 10th.

Algeria are on top of the group with seven points, Zambia are third on four while Rwanda lie bottom with a sole point.