Egypt are increasingly confident captain Mohamed Salah will recover in time for Friday’s Round of 32 clash against Australia despite suffering a hamstring strain during the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.The Liverpool legend was forced off in the 57th minute of Egypt’s 1-1 draw with Iran after picking up the injury. Although scans confirmed a hamstring strain, there is growing optimism within the Pharaohs’ camp after Salah returned to training on Tuesday.The 34-year-old has begun an intensive rehabilitation programme and individual recovery sessions as he races against time to be available for the knockout fixture in Dallas.Head coach Hossam Hassan remains hopeful his captain will be fit to lead the side as Egypt chase a place in the Round of 16.Salah has been instrumental in Egypt’s impressive World Cup campaign, scoring in the 3-1 victory over New Zealand and providing two assists during the group stage.The Pharaohs reached the knockout phase for the first time in their history after finishing second in Group G, going unbeaten against Belgium, New Zealand and Iran.Should Salah fail to recover in time, much of Egypt’s attacking responsibility is expected to fall on Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush.The 27-year-old started the tournament brightly but was surprisingly left on the bench against Iran, coming on as a second-half substitute.Sources close to the Egyptian camp indicate Marmoush was disappointed not to start that match and is eager to reclaim his place against Australia.Having yet to make the impact many expected at the tournament, Friday’s knockout encounter presents the forward with an opportunity to deliver on the biggest stage.Egypt will be hoping Salah can recover in time as they seek to continue their historic World Cup run against the Socceroos.
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