The streets of Egypt are filled with an uncommon level of optimism as the national football team, inspired by a resurgent Mohamed Salah, prepares to face Argentina in the World Cup knockout stage. This surge of confidence stems from Salah's transformed demeanor and performance, leading many Egyptians to believe their team can overcome formidable opponents like Lionel Messi's Argentina.
Omar Elbanouby, a sports reporter and author based in Egypt, described the national sentiment as "nothing short of madness," with fans posing the question, "Why can't we beat Argentina? If they have Lionel Messi… then we have Mohamed Salah."
Journalist Ismael Mahmoud echoed this feeling, stating, "Mohamed Salah, with the confidence he has and which he transferred to the players, has made the Egyptian people aspire and think, 'Why not beat Argentina and Messi? We can do it'." He added that Salah "has become more liberated from the pressure... He genuinely seems like a different person."
A World Cup Journey Against the Odds
Egypt's path to this point has been historic. The nation has qualified for the World Cup finals four times previously, with their best performance being a group stage exit in 1990. The 2018 appearance saw Salah arrive at the tournament partially injured. This year, however, has marked a significant shift. A 1-1 draw with Belgium was followed by a 3-1 victory over New Zealand, securing Egypt's first-ever World Cup win, with goals from Salah, Mostafa Ziko, and Trezeguet. A subsequent 1-1 draw with Iran ensured their progression to the knockout stages for the first time.
Their Round of 32 match against Australia was a hard-fought contest that required a penalty shootout. While Salah was not dominant for large stretches, he grew into the game, providing a crucial late assist. His penalty in the shootout was one of the most significant moments of his career, carrying the weight of a nation, akin to Cristiano Ronaldo for Portugal or Messi for Argentina.
Mahmoud noted that this is "the best version of him with the national team since 2018," observing a change in both his performance and personality. "He has become more liberated from the pressure... For the first time, we feel that Salah is living days without pressure, and this is what allows him to deliver such fantastic performances at the age of 34."
Elbanouby added that fans have "rediscovered their faith in Salah — not just as a superstar, but as a true captain. He has led Egypt to the last 16 and restored belief in his ability to carry the national team on football's biggest stage." The national team coach, Hossam Hassan, and his twin brother, Ibrahim, the national team director, have also rallied the fans.
Salah's Future and Transfer Speculation
Adding to the narrative surrounding Salah is the uncertainty of his club future. As a free agent, he has yet to make a decision on his next move, intending to do so only after the World Cup concludes. While Saudi Arabian clubs, particularly Al Ittihad which made a substantial bid in 2023, were considered strong possibilities, financial arrangements remain uncertain. Al Hilal could also be a potential suitor.
His former club, Roma, and Italian giants Juventus have reportedly explored the possibility of bringing him back to Serie A, though financial constraints may hinder these moves. Salah himself has credited former coach Luciano Spalletti, with whom he worked at Roma, as having a significant impact on his career. Clubs in the United States and Turkey have also expressed interest, leaving the race for his signature wide open.
A return to Liverpool, where he spent nine successful years, is a distant possibility that many fans might fantasize about, though it appears unlikely to be a logical move for either party.
Despite a comparatively subdued season by his own exceptionally high standards, Salah remains in excellent physical condition and is capable of making a significant impact at a top European club.
While Salah is undoubtedly the focal point, Egypt's squad also features other threats, including Emam Ashour, who has scored two goals, and Manchester City's Omar Marmoush. Defensively, the team is characterized by its resilience.
Salah's legacy as Egypt's greatest footballer is already secure. However, a victory against world champions Argentina and Lionel Messi would elevate his status to unparalleled heights. The odds may be stacked against Egypt, but as the prevailing sentiment on the streets of Cairo and Alexandria suggests, "Why not?"