Egypt forward Mohamed Salah was substituted in the 57th minute of the team's 1-1 draw with Iran due to a left knee injury, coach Hossam Hassan confirmed Friday. The Pharaohs' medical staff is currently assessing Salah, with further examinations planned upon the team's return to their hotel.
Hassan stated that Salah himself believes the injury is not severe and that he will be okay. "We still have time to talk to the medical staff. I think he will be back, and when I spoke to Salah he assured me he’s going to be OK," Hassan said, speaking through a translator.
The Egyptian team had expressed quiet confidence in their roster ahead of the tournament, with Hassan setting a goal for the team to advance past the group stage for the first time in the expanded field. Salah scored his 68th international goal in Egypt's 3-1 victory against New Zealand, contributing to two other goals in the tournament. His potential absence in the knockout round against Australia next Friday would represent a significant blow to Egypt's chances.