Socceroos suffer double blow: The severe injuries derailing Australia's knockout preparations

03.07.26 AP World Cup

Australia

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Egypt

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Australia faces a major setback ahead of Friday’s knockout clash against Egypt losing two crucial players to tournament ending injuries this week.

The medical update

According to official confirmation from Football Australia, veteran forward Mathew Leckie and starting fullback Jacob Italiano are officially ruled out for the remainder of the World Cup 2026.

Italiano who started the opening fixtures against Turkey and the United States, suffered a severe groin issue during a recent training session. Meanwhile, Leckie sustained a hamstring tear during the intense matchup against the Americans.

Both players were forced to sit out Thursday’s scoreless draw against Paraguay, a gritty result that officially punched the Socceroos' ticket to the Round of 32.

The Pharaohs await

This medical crisis arrives at a critical moment as Australia prepares to face Egypt on Friday. The Pharaohs just secured their knockout berth following a dramatic 1-1 draw against Iran on Saturday morning.

That hard fought point allowed Egypt to finish second in Group G with 5 point sitting just behind Belgium on goal difference setting the stage for a highly physical intercontinental showdown.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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