Egypt captain Mohamed Salah suffered a hamstring strain during Egypt's 1-1 draw with Iran in the World Cup group stage, according to a statement by team doctor Mohamed Abou El Ela released by the Egyptian Football Association (EFA). Salah was substituted after complaining of pain and has since begun a treatment program. The 34-year-old forward scored one goal and provided two assists in Egypt's three group matches, helping the team reach the knockout stage for the first time.

The EFA has not indicated whether Salah will be fit to play in Egypt's last-32 World Cup match against Australia, scheduled for Friday in Dallas. In addition to Salah's injury concerns, regular left back Ahmed Fatouh has suffered a hamstring tear and is unlikely to recover in time for the match. Centre back Mohamed Abdelmonem, who had a season affected by injuries at Ligue 1 club Nice, sustained a severe ankle bruise and was substituted after 14 minutes against Iran.

Egypt finished second in Group G with five points and will face Australia for a place in the round of 16.

Sources