Egypt have already broken new ground at the 2026 World Cup, but Hossam Hassan’s side now has the chance to make even more history.

The Pharaohs reached the knockout stage for the first time in the modern World Cup era after finishing second in Group G, drawing with Belgium and Iran either side of a landmark 3-1 victory over New Zealand – Egypt’s first-ever World Cup group-stage win. Standing in their way now is an Australia side chasing a piece of history of its own: a first World Cup knockout victory.

Will Mo Salah play for Egypt against Australia?

The biggest question surrounds Mohamed Salah. Egypt’s captain came off against Iran with a hamstring issue and was seen icing the injury, sparking fears over his availability. However, he returned to training before the trip to Dallas and remains in contention to start.

If Salah is fit enough, and I’m hearing he will be, Hassan is unlikely to leave him out for the biggest game of Egypt’s tournament. Even at less than 100 percent, his movement, creativity and experience make him the focal point of the attack. If he can’t, Omar Marmoush is expected to take on even greater responsibility in the final third.

Behind them, Emam Ashour should keep his place after another energetic tournament. Ashour opened the scoring against Belgium and has been one of Egypt’s standout performers, linking midfield and attack while offering a goal threat from deep.

Further back, Hassan has little reason to make major changes. Goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir has grown into the tournament after a solid group stage, while the back four has looked increasingly settled as Egypt conceded just three goals across their opening three matches.

Australia’s disciplined defensive shape means patience will be vital, so expect Hassan to stick with the players who delivered qualification rather than gamble with wholesale changes.

Predicted Egypt XI (4-2-3-1): Mostafa Shobeir; Mohamed Hany, Rami Rabia, Mohamed Abdelmonem, Ahmed Fotouh; Hamdi Fathi, Marwan Attia; Emam Ashour, Trezeguet, Mohamed Salah; Omar Marmoush.

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