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Advantage Socceroos? Egypt give update on Salah injury
SEN • July 3rd, 2026 10:55 am
- Australia v Egypt 4am AEST - Saturday
- Argentina v Cape Verde 8am AEST - Saturday
- Colombia v Ghana 11:30am AEST - Saturday
World Cup daily news. We will bring you the latest from around the world as the FIFA World Cup 2026™ finally gets under way (All times AEST).
IS SALAH FIT?
Mystery has surrounded the fitness levels of Egypt star Mo Salah all week since it was revealed he was struggling with a hamstring injury.
The superstar was substituted in his nation's 1-1 draw with Iran in the final round of the group stages and the team has gone to ground on any information since.
Now, 24 hours out from their clash with the Socceroos, Egypt's coach has said his captain will be given until the last minute to make a call on whether he is up to playing.
Despite taking part in training on Wednesday and Thursday, there are no guarantees he starts.
"We tried to introduce him to partial team training from yesterday," Egypt coach Hossam Hasan said.
“But, Salah is a passionate player, he’s very much looking forward to making his own contribution with his players but on the other hand I am not going to run any risk unless I am 100% sure he is fit and raring to go tomorrow.
“We are looking forward to him playing tomorrow … just not sure if it is going to be in the starting line-up or at a later stage."
Egypt secure their place in the last 32 with draws against Iran and Belgium as well as a 3-1 victory over New Zealand.
When it comes to facing Australia, Hasan said he has no concerns when it comes to the height differential or how physical the encounter stands to be.
“What have you seen up until now? You’ve seen we play a balanced game, we play as a collective, it’s important to study our opponent of course but at the same time we have to have our own personality,” he said.
“... Of course, I’ve been following the Australian squad since the qualifying campaign, and they also participated in the Asian Cup. I’ve followed them the same as I followed Iran, they have experienced players, play long balls and have physical strength.
“They’re a great team, I respect every squad we face.”
