World Cup 2026: We’re prepared for Egypt with or without Salah – Australia coach Tony Popovic

Australia coach Tony Popovic insists his outfit is fully prepared to face Egypt in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, whether Mohamed Salah starts the match or not.

The Asian giants will face the North African powerhouse in a highly anticipated knockout clash at the global showpiece, being hosted in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Salah’s availability for the encounter has become one of the major talking points ahead of the game after the Egyptian captain sustained an injury in their final group stage game against Iran.

Despite reports of his return for the clash, uncertainty remains over whether he will be included in the starting lineup against the Socceroos.

Speaking ahead of the match, Popovic explained that Australia have carefully prepared for both possibilities and have analyzed Egypt extensively with and without the presence of their star forward.

“We are prepared for both scenarios,” Popovic said in comments reported by Flashscore. “We analyzed the matches in which Salah played and those in which he was absent, and we also studied the players who replaced him.”

“We are ready either way, and we will wait to see the final decision regarding his participation,” the Australian coach added.

Popovic expressed strong confidence in his squad ahead of the knockout fixture, stating that Australia deserved their place in the Round of 32 following their performances during the group phase.

“We feel very good,” he said. “We proved our worth in the group stage and showed that we deserve to be here. The players are confident, comfortable and fully prepared.”

The former defender also stressed that Australia have great respect for Egypt, describing the Pharaohs as a highly motivated side eager to secure a historic breakthrough in the knockout rounds.

“We respect Egypt a lot,” Popovic continued. “They are like us — they want to achieve something important and reach the next stage.”

The Australian coach described the upcoming contest as a special occasion for his players and for Australian football as a whole, emphasizing the team’s determination to represent the country proudly on the world stage.

“It is a special match and we are delighted to have reached this point,” he explained. “We want to represent Australian football in the best possible way once again.”

Popovic also praised the development and mentality of his players throughout the tournament, particularly after their recent performances in the group stage.

“I noticed a great improvement in the players,” he said. “In the second half of our last match, we were very proud of what they produced.”

“The way they reacted showed maturity, confidence and calmness. These are qualities you need at this level, and I believe the players are ready to take another step forward.”

The Australian manager acknowledged the unpredictable nature of knockout football, pointing out that many matches in the competition have already been decided by fine margins, including penalty shootouts.

“Knockout games are always different,” Popovic stated. “We have seen matches decided on penalties and others controlled completely by one team. Every game has its own story.”

“We have always believed that we have the level to compete here,” Popovic concluded. “Now we have another chance to show our quality.”