Former Egypt coach holds back criticism of Salah following Argentina loss

Former Egypt head coach Hassan Shehata has declined to criticise Mohamed Salah following the Pharaohs’ dramatic exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying any assessment he gave could be damaging to the Liverpool forward.

Egypt’s tournament ended in heartbreaking fashion after a 3-2 defeat by Argentina in the Round of 16, despite holding a two-goal lead until the closing stages before the defending champions completed a late comeback.

Appearing on MBC Egypt to analyse the match, Shehata made it clear he preferred not to discuss Salah’s performance.

“I don’t want to talk about Mohamed Salah, because if I talk about him I might say something that hurts him.”

‘I am not prepared to be blamed’

The former Egypt coach said he expected any criticism of the national team captain to attract strong reactions and chose not to comment further.

“Many will blame me if I talk about Salah, and I am not prepared to be blamed because of a player.”

Shehata suggested that, if he were to give his full assessment, it would not be limited to Salah alone.

“If I speak, I will say hurtful things against Salah and all the players.”

Comments come after dramatic defeat

Shehata also reflected briefly on Salah’s role during the closing stages of the match, noting the captain’s discussions with the match officials.

“Salah was only standing to talk to the referee during the Argentina match. Yes, he is the team captain and that is his right.”

The comments come as Egypt continues to reflect on a painful World Cup exit that has prompted widespread debate over both the team’s performance and the controversial officiating that overshadowed the closing moments of the defeat to Argentina.