Salah injury scare clouds Egypt's last-16 qualification

Egypt qualified for the Round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup but left Seattle with concerns over Mohamed Salah after the star forward was substituted off in the 57th minute during Friday's 1-1 draw against Iran, applying an ice pack to his left thigh.

Egypt coach Hossam Hassan moved quickly to calm fears. "The doctor will write his report when we return to the hotel and conduct a second examination. I spoke with Salah and, God willing, the injury does not appear serious," he told reporters. "Salah assured me he will be fine and that it is not a major injury," the former Egypt striker added.

Egypt finished second in Group G and will face Australia in Dallas on July 3 for a place in the quarter-finals, a crucial match in which the Pharaohs will be hoping their talisman is fit to lead the line.

At 33, Salah remains Egypt's most important player and the one man capable of taking them deep into the tournament. Any significant absence would represent a severe blow to their World Cup ambitions.