Egypt captain Mohamed Salah is a doubt for their World Cup last-32 tie with Australia after he was confirmed as having suffered a hamstring strain.
The former Liverpool talisman was substituted 12 minutes into the second half of Egypt’s final group game against Iran on Friday.
A 1-1 draw secured Egypt as the runners-up in Group G, setting up a meeting with the Socceroos in Arlington, Texas next Friday, which will mark the first World Cup knockout game in their history.
However, it remains to be seen if Salah, the face of Egyptian football, will be available, following an update from team doctor Dr. Mohamed Aboul Ela.
A statement from the Egyptian Football Association read: “Dr. Mohamed Aboul Ela, the doctor for Egypt’s senior national football team, revealed that the scans undergone by Medical examinations undergone by national team captain Mohamed Salah revealed a hamstring strain — sustained after he felt pain during the match against Iran and was subsequently substituted — and he has already begun his treatment program.
“Abou Ela added that Ahmed Fathty is suffering from a hamstring tear, making it unlikely he will be fit for the match against Australia in the 2026 World Cup Round of 32, while Mohamed Abdel Moneim sustained a severe ankle contusion and is currently being prepared for the same match.”
