Mohamed Salah Inspires Egypt’s Historic World Cup Victory

Mohamed Salah entered the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup with a grounded mindset. In his own words, or to the press via ESPN, he expressed the need to focus on their camp and train hard, hoping to make the people proud. His statement reflected either skilled media training or the honest thoughts of a man with hopes tinged by past experiences.

Egypt had qualified for its first World Cup since 1990, driven by a goal from Salah in October 2017. However, they lost all three group stage matches at the 2018 Men’s World Cup in Russia, failing to qualify entirely in 2022. Now, in what might be his final World Cup appearance, Salah reignited hope with a remarkable game against New Zealand at BC Place in Vancouver on June 21.

New Zealand drew first blood with a 15th-minute goal by Finn Surman. However, Mostafa Zico leveled the score in the 58th minute. The true spectacle began with Salah scoring in the 67th minute, followed by an assist to Trezeguet in the 82nd minute, securing a 3-1 comeback victory. This marked Egypt’s first-ever World Cup win.

“What happened today is history for us, as Egyptians,” Salah said after being named Man of the Match. “For other teams, it’s routine. But for us, winning such games is rare.” Egypt’s journey began with a 1-1 draw against Belgium, with Salah scoring again, and they now lead Group G with 4 points.

Salah’s ability to shine under immense pressure is always a joy to witness, much as it was for Liverpool fans over nine years. The excitement continues as Egypt faces the possibility of advancing far in the tournament.

According to The Athletic, Egypt has over a 99% chance to progress to the knockout stage, with a 61% chance to win Group G. Historically, Egypt reached the knockout stage only once, back in 1934. They will aim to secure their future in the competition against Iran at Lumen Field in Seattle on Friday, June 26.