Mohamed Salah was an unused substitute in Egypt's 1-0 loss to Uruguay in their World Cup opener, and coach Hector Cuper has now explained why he decided against using the Liverpool star.

Read: Last-Minute Goal Breaks Salah-less Egypt

The former Inter Milan manager revealed prior to Friday's clash that Salah was 100 percent fit for the clash with the Uruguayans.

However, the Liverpool watched on from the sidelines as the Pharaohs went down 1-0, with Jose Gimenez netting a late winner.

Cuper has now revealed that he was saving Salah for the final two group matches against Russia and Saudi Arabia.

Read: Ronaldo Hat-Trick Hands Portugal A Point In Six-Goal Thriller

Egypt currently occupy third spot in Group A and they face Russia in their next encounter.

Do you think Egypt can still qualify for the last 16? Have your say in the comment section below.