Egypt have been handed a major injury concern ahead of their FIFA 2026 World Cup Round of 32 clash against Australia after captain Mohamed Salah suffered a hamstring injury during Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Iran.
- +World Cup: Egypt sweat on Mohamed Salah’s fitness ahead of Australia clash
The Liverpool winger, who is set to leave Anfield as a free agent on July 1 officially, was substituted in the 57th minute and replaced by Mostafa Zico after appearing to suffer discomfort.
The Liverpool winger, who is set to leave Anfield as a free agent on July 1 officially, was substituted in the 57th minute and replaced by Mostafa Zico after appearing to suffer discomfort.
Salah has been one of Egypt’s standout performers at this year’s World Cup, scoring three goals, including his 68th international strike in the Pharaohs’ 3-1 victory over New Zealand in the group stage. His performances have been instrumental in helping Egypt reach the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time.
However, his availability for next Friday’s Round of 32 clash against Australia is now in doubt.
Providing an update after the match, Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan confirmed that Salah complained of hamstring pain, prompting his withdrawal.
“Hossam Hassan, the technical director of Egypt’s first national team, confirmed that Mohamed Salah, the team captain, complained of pain in his hamstring during the Iran match in the 2026 World Cup, which led to his withdrawal from the game in the second half,” the Egyptian Football Association said in a statement.
The Egyptian FA added that Salah will undergo medical tests to determine the extent of the injury.
Egypt were also dealt further fitness concerns, with left-back Ahmed Fotouh reporting hamstring pain, while defender Mohamed Abdelmonem suffered an ankle bruise.
The Pharaohs will now await the results of Salah’s scan, hoping their talisman will be fit in time for the crucial knockout encounter against Australia.
