“The King is back.” That was the caption the Egyptian Football Association posted on Tuesday alongside pictures of Mohamed Salah training normally. The 33-year-old forward suffered a hamstring strain against Iran, but he appears to be winning his race against time ahead of Friday’s last-32 tie against Australia in Dallas.
An injury at the worst possible moment
Mohamed Salah picked up the hamstring injury during Egypt’s decisive win over Iran, the result that sealed the Pharaohs’ historic passage to the knockout stage. The news alarmed fans just as the team reached the last 32 of a World Cup for the very first time.
But according to sources inside the Egypt camp, the recovery has been going well. Images released by the federation on Tuesday show Salah training with the group, a promising sign ahead of Friday’s meeting with Australia.
Egypt’s historic run to the last 32
In only their fourth World Cup appearance, the Pharaohs put together a flawless group stage on paper: unbeaten against Belgium, New Zealand and Iran, they finished second in Group G.
It’s the first time in history that Egypt have reached the knockout stage of a World Cup, making Salah’s availability even more crucial as they push for the last 16 in Dallas.
What this means for the knockout bracket
A shock Egyptian exit, or a run driven by a fully recovered Salah, would directly reshape the knockout bracket, something closely watched by fans across the tournament, including England supporters tracking results from the other groups.
The question now is whether Egypt’s coach risks starting his star man from the first whistle, or manages him more cautiously early in the game.
FAQ
Will Mohamed Salah play against Australia?
Sources inside the Egypt camp say Salah is recovering well and could feature, either from the start or off the bench, in Friday’s game in Dallas.
When is Egypt vs Australia?
The last-32 match is being played on Friday in Dallas as part of the 2026 World Cup.
How did Egypt qualify for the last 32?
The Pharaohs finished second in Group G, unbeaten against Belgium, New Zealand and Iran.
Where did Mohamed Salah get injured?
He suffered a hamstring strain during the group game against Iran that sealed Egypt’s qualification.
Is this Egypt’s first-ever last-32 appearance?
Yes, it’s a historic milestone for the Pharaohs, who are playing in their fourth World Cup.
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