Egypt captain Mohamed Salah is a major doubt for the World Cup last-32 clash against Australia on Friday, July 3, 2026, after sustaining a hamstring injury during the draw with Iran. The Liverpool forward is among several players being assessed ahead of the knockout match, though there is optimism he could recover in time if he responds well to treatment before kick-off.
Egypt's Injury Concerns
Alongside Salah, Egypt has other fitness concerns: Hamdy Fathy (groin), Hossam Abdelmaguid (head), Mohamed Abdelmonem (ankle), and Ahmed El Fotouh (hamstring) are all being monitored, with their availability likely to be determined closer to the match. Midfielder Mohanad Lasheen is definitely out due to suspension after receiving a yellow card against Iran, forcing head coach Hossam Hassan to make at least one change to his starting lineup.
Hassan may have to alter his plans if several key players fail late fitness tests. Egypt will hope to have Salah available as they aim to progress to the next round.
Australia's Team News
Australia will be without Jacob Italiano (groin) and Mathew Leckie (hamstring), both sidelined for the first knockout match. Head coach Tony Popovic is expected to keep faith with the side that defeated Paraguay, with central defender Lucas Herrington retaining his place after a composed performance. Nestory Irankunda, who has scored six goals in 18 international appearances including one at this tournament, is set to lead the attack.
Australia have impressed with their organisation and defensive resilience during the group stage, and Popovic may be reluctant to make unnecessary changes as his side aim to reach the last 16.
Predicted Lineups and Match Details
Australia predicted XI: Beach; Circati, Souttar, Herrington; Bos, O'Neill, Irvine, Behich; Volpato, Irankunda, Metcalfe
Egypt predicted XI: Shobeir; Hany, Ibrahim, Rabia, Hafez; Ateya, Saber; Ziko, Salah, Ashour; Marmoush
Time and date: 7pm BST on Friday, July 3, 2026
How to watch: BBC One and iPlayer
