The streets of Egypt are filled with an unusual wave of optimism as fans dare to dream of a World Cup upset against Lionel Messi's Argentina. This surge of belief is largely attributed to a transformed Mohamed Salah, who has inspired his national team to unprecedented heights.
Reporters and sources within Egypt describe a fervent atmosphere, with fans openly questioning why they cannot defeat Argentina. "If they have Lionel Messi… then we have Mohamed Salah," is a common sentiment, reflecting a newfound confidence in their captain. This "why not?" attitude underpins Egypt's approach to their upcoming match.
Salah, 34, has overcome a difficult year at Liverpool following public disputes and a significant drop in goal-scoring form. After a season where he managed 12 goals, a stark contrast to his previous campaigns, some doubted his ability to perform on the international stage. However, his performances in the Africa Cup of Nations, where he scored four goals, and his leadership in the current World Cup, have reignited national hope.
Egypt's World Cup history has been marked by near misses and early exits. Having qualified for five finals but only participated in four, their previous campaigns have seen limited success: a loss in 1934, a group stage exit in 1990, and a winless performance in 2018, a tournament where Salah was notably unfit. This year, however, has seen a marked improvement, with a 1-1 draw against Belgium and a 3-1 victory over New Zealand, featuring goals from Salah, Mostafa Ziko, and Trezeguet. A subsequent 1-1 draw with Iran secured their progression to the knockout stages for the first time.
The team's advancement to a knockout tie came through a penalty shootout victory against Australia. While Salah was not dominant for large stretches of the match, he grew into the game, delivering a crucial assist. His emotional reaction after the win highlighted the immense pressure he carries, akin to global superstars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi.
Journalist Ismael Mahmoud observes a significant shift in Salah's demeanor: "People here are so happy with Salah… This is the best version of him with the national team since 2018. They feel that something has changed. I'm not just talking about the style of play and performance, but Salah's personality itself. He has become more liberated from the pressure… He genuinely seems like a different person, someone with no pressure, laughing and joking with everyone." This perceived liberation at 34 is seen as key to his current performance level.
Omar Elbanouby adds that fans have rediscovered faith in Salah not just as a superstar, but as a true captain. Head coach Hossam Hassan and national team director Ibrahim Hassan have also rallied significant support, with fans gathering in large numbers to watch matches, further fueling the team's momentum.
Salah's future at the club level remains undecided, with his contract at Liverpool expiring. He is reportedly a free agent and will not make a decision until after the World Cup. While Saudi Arabian clubs, particularly Al Ittihad and Al Hilal, have shown interest, and former clubs like Roma and Juventus have explored possibilities, financial constraints remain a hurdle. Interest from clubs in the United States and Turkey has also been noted. A return to Liverpool is considered a fantasy, despite the recent sacking of manager Arne Slot.
Despite Salah being the focal point, other players like Emam Ashour and Manchester City's Omar Marmoush are recognized threats, and the team possesses a strong defensive unit. However, Salah remains the pivotal figure. If he can lead Egypt to a victory against Argentina and Messi, his legacy as Egypt's greatest footballer would be elevated to legendary status, reaching indescribable levels.
The odds may be against them, but as the saying goes on the streets of Cairo and Alexandria, "why not?"