Ethopia's Saladin Said fit for Africa Cup of Nations qualifier BBC Reports

Ethiopia striker Saladin Said has been declared fit to play against Benin in next weekend's 2013 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier second leg.

Saladin suffered a thigh injury during Sunday's 2-0 2014 World Cup qualifying win over the Central African Republic.

The Egypt-based striker, 23, scored both goals for Ethiopia, who have not played in the Nations Cup since 1982.

Saladin was also on the scoresheet in the World Cup qualifying opener with South Africa, which ended 1-1.

The Wadi Degla forward has emerged as an instant household name and poster boy after his decisive goals in the two World Cup qualifiers.

Team doctors in Addis Ababa tried on Tuesday to determine the severity of his injury and whether he could play against Benin.

Saladin had to receive medical attention on the sidelines immediately after scoring Ethiopia's second goal in the 88th minute before returning to finish the game.

Ethiopia claimed a goalless draw with the Squirrels of Benin at home in February and, buoyed by their performance in the World Cup qualifiers, will be hoping to cause an upset in Cotonou.

His two goals against CAR sparked wild celebrations around the coun try as Ethiopia, who have never qualified for the World Cup at senior level, moved to the top of Group A with four points.

CAR are in second position with three points, followed by South Africa with two and Botswana with one point in bottom place.
BBC