Egypt has received an encouraging update on Mohamed Salah's fitness ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash against Australia, with national team coach Hossam Hassan expressing optimism over the captain's recovery.
Salah has been one of Egypt's standout performers at the tournament, but injury concerns emerged after he was forced off during the Pharaohs' final group-stage encounter against Iran, leaving fans anxious about his availability for the knockout fixture.
Hossam Hassan provides encouraging update on Salah's fitness
Salah has enjoyed an impressive FIFA World Cup campaign after a difficult final season with Liverpool under former manager Arne Slot.
The Egyptian superstar registered an assist in his side's opening 1-1 draw against Belgium before producing a goal, an assist and a Player of the Match performance in Egypt's historic 3-1 victory over New Zealand — the nation's first-ever FIFA World Cup win.
However, celebrations were short-lived after Mohamed Salah picked up an injury against Iran and was later spotted on the bench with ice strapped to his left leg.
Despite speculation surrounding his condition, Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan revealed that the forward remains part of the squad and has been undergoing intensive treatment with the medical staff using specialised equipment.
"I will tell you that Salah is part of the team. We are surprised as well; the most important thing is that Salah has been involved in an intensive treatment with medical equipment," Hassan said.
Hassan also stressed that he would not risk Salah's fitness by starting him unless he was completely satisfied with the veteran forward's physical condition.
Salah eyes another milestone for Egypt
Apart from guiding Egypt's World Cup campaign, Mohamed Salah is also closing in on a historic personal achievement.
The 33-year-old currently sits just one goal behind Hassan's all-time Egypt scoring record of 69 international goals, adding further significance to his potential return against Australia.
With a place in the Round of 16 at stake, Egypt will hope their talisman recovers in time to lead the side, while Australia prepare to face a team chasing another historic milestone on football's biggest stage.