Supporters were handed an anxious moment on Friday night as Mohamed Salah’s World Cup campaign suffered an unexpected setback.
The Liverpool legend was forced off during Egypt’s 1-1 draw with Iran after appearing to pick up a knee problem in the second half, raising immediate concerns over the severity of the issue and whether he would be able to feature in the Round of 32 for his country.
Salah was taken off in the 57th minute, with Mostafa Zico replacing the former Liverpool forward.
The sight of Egypt’s captain being withdrawn so early surprised many, particularly given his importance to his country.
Fortunately, initial updates from Egypt boss Hossam Hassan have offered a reassuring outlook.
Speaking after the match, as quoted by The Washington Post, Hassan revealed that Mohamed Salah remains optimistic about the issue despite undergoing further medical assessments.
Hassan said: “I talked to Salah and he said hes going to be OK and it’s not a big injury. 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.”
According to the Egypt boss, Salah’s left knee suffered the injury and he will now undergo an examination back at the team hotel.
The national team’s medical staff will assess the extent of the problem before making a final diagnosis.
It brings to an end a unique record for Mohamed Salah as his early withdrawal means that he has no longer scored or assisted in every World Cup game he has featured in.
With Egypt still aiming to progress deep into the World Cup, they will hope Salah’s confidence proves well-founded and that the player’s injury is nothing more than a minor scare ahead of the knockout rounds.