ARLINGTON, United States, July 3, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - Egypt's talisman and captain Mohamed Salah was named to start the last-32 World Cup encounter with Australia in Texas on Friday following a hamstring niggle.

The former Liverpool attacker came off in Egypt's final group game, a 1-1 draw with Iran a week ago.

Egypt coach Hossam Hassan had said on Thursday that he was "not sure" if the 34-year-old would be fit to start.

But Hassan named him in a starting XI that also includes Manchester City's Omar Marmoush in attack.

Salah has one goal and two assists so far at the tournament in North America and averages a goal every other game for his country.

Egypt and Australia are both attempting to win a World Cup knockout game for the first time when they meet at the home of the Dallas Cowboys.

The winner will face either Lionel Messi's reigning champions Argentina or debutants Cape Verde in the last 16.