Arabic version: صلاح يهدف إلى فوز تاريخي بينما تستعد مصر لكأس العالم

Mohamed Salah is closing in on Hossam Hassan’s record as Egypt’s all-time leading scorer, needing just two more goals to draw level. According to The Guardian, the Liverpool icon is set to play a crucial role for Egypt as they seek to end a 92-year wait for a World Cup victory.

Egypt’s national team, known as the Pharaohs, will kick off their fourth World Cup appearance against Belgium on Monday. Despite winning the Africa Cup of Nations seven times, Egypt has yet to secure a win in any of their previous seven World Cup matches. This paradox highlights Egypt’s underachievement on the world stage, as they strive for a modest goal of winning at least one match in the tournament.

Qualification for the World Cup was remarkably straightforward by Egyptian standards. The Pharaohs topped their qualifying group unbeaten, and Salah was instrumental during the qualifying rounds, scoring nine goals and providing three assists. However, he arrives at this World Cup facing challenges, including a hamstring injury that has hampered his preparation.

At 34 years old, Salah has little left to prove in his club career, having won every major honour available with Liverpool. Yet, his legacy in Egypt hinges on the upcoming tournament. If he can lead the national team to its first World Cup win, he will solidify his status as one of the greatest players in Egyptian football history.

Despite past disappointments, the Egyptian squad remains hopeful. Coach Hossam Hassan expressed confidence in Salah’s ability to deliver in critical moments. As the World Cup approaches, Egyptians blend hope with humor, aware of their team’s historical struggles but eager for a breakthrough that could change their football narrative forever.