Mohamed Salah was the centre of attention as Egypt opened their AFCON campaign with a 2-1 win.
It is that time of year again when Liverpool have to manage without Salah, who is away on international duty. This time, though, they might find it a bit easier than in previous years.
The 33-year-old’s performance this season has been significantly below his usual standard. Following a public outburst, he dramatically departed, leaving his potential return uncertain.
Salah’s focus now shifts entirely to Egypt, where expectations are high. He is under pressure to lead them to his first AFCON title, and their campaign is off to a positive start after beating Zimbabwe.
The Liverpool idol scored a stoppage-time winner to secure all three points, but the reaction from Egyptian media captured his performance well.
Media focus on Mohamed Salah’s struggles despite late winner for Egypt
There is no questioning what Salah has accomplished in his career. He has long been a top scorer, not just in the Premier League, but in world football.
Even so, he does seem to be losing a step. His performances at club level have not been quite up to his usual standard this season, and that form carried over into Egypt’s AFCON opener as well.
The national media did not hold back. Even though he scored the winner, many pointed out that he looked off the pace for much of the match.
Al Jazeera noted: “Salah had come into the tournament in Morocco under the spotlight following a fiery outburst after being dropped by the Premier League champions and struggled to find his rhythm for most of the match.”
Meanwhile, Al-Ahram said: “The Liverpool forward had little influence for much of the contest but proved decisive at the death.”
Salah has always had a knack for scoring when it matters. But this season, those moments have become less frequent, and it feels like people are starting to notice more than ever before. And he does not seem too happy about it either.
Mo Salah’s next fixture for Egypt
With a bit of confidence potentially gained from his late winner, all eyes will be on how Salah performs in his next outing for Egypt.
That match is set for Boxing Day, where they will be up against South Africa, another side who opened their tournament with a 2-1 victory.
Their final group game is against Angola, though if Egypt pick up another win beforehand, progression could already be assured by then.
Liverpool fans are understandably eager to have Salah back soon, especially given Alexander Isak’s recent injury. At the same time, seeing him lift the trophy would be a proud moment too – so either way, there is something positive to take from it.
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