World Cup 2026: Egypt sweating on Mohamed Salah’s fitness ahead of crucial Australia clash as injury woes mount

Egypt’s preparations for their FIFA World Cup Round of 32 showdown against Australia have been dealt a significant blow after captain Mohamed Salah was diagnosed with a hamstring strain and is now in a race against time to be fit for the knockout encounter.

The Egyptian Football Association confirmed that Salah has already begun a rehabilitation programme after sustaining the injury during the Pharaohs’ 1-1 draw against Iran in their final Group G match.

The Liverpool star was forced off in the 57th minute after experiencing discomfort, raising immediate concerns over his availability for the high-stakes fixture against Australia.

Salah has been one of Egypt’s standout performers at the tournament, contributing a goal and two assists as Hossam Hassan’s side progressed to the knockout rounds for the first time in the nation’s history. However, the 34-year-old now faces a battle to recover in time for the clash in Dallas.

The Pharaohs’ injury concerns do not end there.

First-choice left-back Ahmed Fattouh is also expected to miss the encounter after suffering a hamstring tear. The defender picked up the injury during the group stage and is considered unlikely to recover in time for the meeting with the Socceroos.

Meanwhile, central defender Mohamed Abdelmonem remains a major doubt after sustaining an ankle injury. The experienced defender suffered a severe ankle bruise during the draw with Iran and is currently being assessed by the medical team ahead of the knockout fixture. Although there remains some optimism over his chances of featuring, no final decision has been made regarding his availability.

Despite the growing injury list, Egypt will take confidence from an unbeaten group-stage campaign in which they secured one victory and two draws to finish second in Group G behind Belgium on goal difference.

The North Africans will now hope their medical staff can deliver positive news, particularly on Salah, as they seek to continue their historic World Cup journey against Australia.