World Cup
Salah's knee injury casts doubt on Egypt's knockout hopes
Egypt captain Mohamed Salah suffered a knee injury during the team's 1-1 draw with Iran, prompting his substitution after 57 minutes. The 34-year-old, who previously starred for Liverpool, was seen receiving ice on his leg while watching the remainder of the match from the bench.
Salah was taken off at the 57th minute, an unusually early withdrawal in the second half. He then joined his teammates on the bench, with visible ice packs wrapped around his injured knee.
Earlier in the tournament, Salah netted his 68th international goal in Egypt's 3-1 victory over New Zealand, the nation's first World Cup win. He also contributed two assists during the competition.
Coach Hossam Hassan said Salah reported feeling “OK” and described the injury as not serious. “I talked to Salah and he said he’s going to be OK and it’s not a big injury,” Hassan said, adding that medical staff would continue assessments.
Salah's availability for Egypt's last-32 clash against Australia next Friday remains uncertain. Hassan indicated there is still time to consult the medical team before confirming the captain's participation.
Egypt progressed to the knockout stage as Group G runners-up after Belgium's 5-1 win over New Zealand. The team survived a late scare when a potential winning goal for Iran was disallowed for offside in stoppage time.
Iran could still reach the knockout round for the first time, though their fate now depends on other results. Meanwhile, Belgium will face a third‑placed group side in Seattle, and New Zealand will return home without a World Cup victory.