Egypt captain Mohamed Salah is doubtful for Friday’s World Cup round-of-32 clash with Australia after picking up a hamstring injury.
The 34-year-old was taken off during Egypt’s 1-1 draw with Iran, and team doctor Mohamed Abou said Salah reported pain before scans later confirmed a hamstring strain.
The Egyptian Football Association said Salah has begun a treatment plan but did not indicate whether he will be ready to face Australia in Dallas on 3 July (19:00 BST).
“I spoke with Salah and, God willing, the injury doesn’t seem serious,” Egypt coach Hossam Hassan said after the Iran match.
“He assured me it would be fine, that it’s not a serious injury.”
A hamstring issue sidelined the former Liverpool star for three weeks from late April, but he returned to play in the Reds’ final two matches of the season.
Salah has one goal and two assists at this World Cup as Egypt advanced from Group G in second place.