South Africa coach Hugo Broos in Egyptian media storm over Mohamed Salah comments after the controversial VAR penalty against Bafana Bafana

Hugo Broos’ utterances that Mohamed Salah was also shocked by the VAR penalty call has been refuted by the Egypt FA.

The Pharaohs have released a statement defending their marksman.

On Friday, at the Stade de Adra in Agadir, Salah scored from the penalty spot following a VAR call.

Broos was critical of the decision by the officials even going to says even Salah told him ‘the decision surprised’ him.

"This statement, with all due respect to the head coach of the South African national team, can only be described as a humorous remark, and such talk cannot affect a player of the caliber and value of Mohamed Salah," media officer Mohamed Morad told beIN Sports.

"There are some coaches who are skilled at making provocative statements after a loss, aiming to divert attention from the result or performance. I believe what Hugo Broos did falls into this category, especially since what transpired between him and Mohamed Salah after the match did not go beyond the usual courtesies, such as wishing each other good luck, without any discussion about the penalty kick or the course of the game."

"I absolutely do not believe that a player with the mentality of Mohamed Salah would make such statements. There is a match referee and the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, and all respect and appreciation to the refereeing team. The penalty was clear and correct."