World Cup 2026: Former Australia star Josip Skoko warns of Salah threat ahead of Egypt clash

Former Australian international Josip Skoko has highlighted the threat posed by Egypt star Mohammed Salah ahead of the anticipated 2026 World Cup round 32 clash.

The encounter between Egypt and Australia is expected to be one of the more closely watched Round of 32 fixtures, with both teams aiming to extend their World Cup journey.

Speaking via Al-Ahly TV, Skoko stressed that the match represents a major opportunity for both nations as they look to progress further in the tournament, while warning that the knockout nature of the game will increase pressure on both sides.

“The Egypt-Australia match is a great opportunity for both teams. Australia has previously qualified for the round of 16, and it will be an interesting encounter between two completely different teams,” he said.

He highlighted Australia’s defensive strength while also acknowledging Egypt’s attacking quality and experience, particularly the influence of star forward Mohamed Salah.

“Australia has great strength in defense, and we have shown some quality in attack. Egypt also has very experienced and skilled players like Mohamed Salah, and it will be a very important match, especially defensively,” Skoko added.

The former midfielder also addressed squad concerns, noting that injuries to key players such as Mathew Leckie and Jacob Italiano could affect Australia’s balance, although he believes the squad has enough depth to cope.

“Regarding the absence of Mathew Leckie and Jacob Italiano, of course there will be an impact, as they left the camp due to injury in the last match. However, I believe that the coach will be able to cover these injuries with many alternatives, and we have players present in the camp as support who are able to compensate for their absence. Despite their injuries, the Australian national team is strong,” he said.

Skoko went on to emphasize the intensity and pressure that comes with World Cup knockout football, noting that both teams will need to be clinical and disciplined.

He also praised Egypt’s attacking output so far in the competition, pointing out their efficiency in front of goal compared to Australia’s performances.

“The match will be difficult, and there is a lot of pressure on the Australian team. There are also many big names playing in European clubs, and the World Cup still represents a lot of pressure on the players. Egypt played a great match against Belgium and managed to score five goals so far. You have scored more goals than Australia,” he said.

He added that Egypt’s balance and experience make them a dangerous opponent, while also stressing Australia’s collective strength and unity.

“Egypt has a strong and cohesive team with great experience in football, but Australia has done well to reach this stage, and we have great players, and we will see an interesting match for both teams,” he said.

Skoko further noted Australia’s physical presence and defensive structure as key elements that could influence the game, especially in dealing with Egypt’s attacking movements.

“We have 3 or 4 very tall players in the defense line, and playing behind the defenders will be more difficult. We will have a lot of challenges and suffering against the Egyptian national team. Our team plays as a single unit in the defense line, and it will be a big challenge against the Egyptian team,” he said.

He concluded by stressing the importance of creativity and efficiency in front of goal in what he expects to be a tightly contested knockout match.

“The Australian team will have the ability to be creative, and we must create many opportunities during the match and score goals, because it is a knockout match,” he said.