SEATTLE, June 27, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - Egypt coach Hossam Hassan said he was optimistic about the health of Mohamed Salah despite the star striker's second-half exit during his country's 1-1 World Cup draw with Iran.

The result meant Egypt qualified for the knock-out last-32 round at the World Cup by finishing second in Group G.

Salah, however, was forced off the pitch in the 57th minute, the striker placing an icepack under his left thigh.

"The doctor will write his report when we get back to the hotel and will carry out a second examination. I spoke with Salah and, God willing, the injury doesn't seem serious," Hassan said.

"I spoke with Salah and he assured me it would be fine, that it's not a serious injury."

Egypt will play Australia in Dallas on July 3 for a place in the last 16.