Egypt are dealing with a potential setback as captain Mohamed Salah’s fitness comes into question after he was forced off during Friday’s 1–1 World Cup draw against Iran.
Salah was substituted 12 minutes into the second half, appearing frustrated as he left the pitch. Hassan said it is still too early to determine the severity of the issue, though early indications do not suggest a serious problem.
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“He asked to come off. If a player asks to be substituted, it means he felt something,” Hassan told beIN Sports, as quoted by Reuters.
“We’ll make sure what the problem is. We’ll assess him.”
The Egypt coach also confirmed that left-back Ahmed Fatouh will undergo evaluation after picking up an injury, while there is optimism that midfielder Hamdi Fathi could return in time for their Round of 32 clash against Australia after missing the Iran match.
Despite the injury concerns, Hassan expressed confidence in his squad after Egypt finished second in Group G on five points, behind Belgium on goal difference.
“I have warriors. I have Egyptian players who are worthy of the trust placed in them,” he said.
” don’t worry about missing players… I have complete confidence in everyone in this squad.”
Hassan described Egypt’s progression to the knockout phase as a proud moment for the country and the wider region, adding that preparations for the next round are already underway.
“We’ll prepare ourselves, work hard and do everything we can for what’s coming next,” he said.