football 22 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)

Salah Shines in Central Role as Egypt Secures Historic World Cup Win

Mohamed Salah demonstrated his enduring class by scoring and assisting as Egypt achieved their first-ever World Cup victory, a 3-1 triumph over New Zealand. The win marks a significant milestone for Egyptian football on the global stage. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/salah-revels-in-central-role-to-help-egypt-make-their-world-cup-mark-5505340

Mohamed Salah, Egypt’s captain, has once again etched his name in the record books, playing a pivotal role in the Pharaohs’ historic 3-1 World Cup victory against New Zealand. Despite a season that didn’t meet his usual high standards at Liverpool, the veteran forward has found his form on the international stage, contributing a goal and two assists in his team’s two matches.

Deployed in a central attacking midfield role behind striker Omar Marmoush in a 4-2-3-1 formation, Salah proved instrumental. Coach Hossam Hassan had expressed confidence in Salah’s adaptability to this more central position, and the player repaid that faith with a man-of-the-match performance.

While the first half saw limited opportunities for Egypt, Salah took command after the break. He was a constant threat, registering five shots and converting a crucial goal with his favored left foot after a slick one-two with Zico. He then turned provider, delivering an outswinging corner that Mahmoud Trezeguet headed home to seal the win.

“We can make history and qualify top of the group,” Salah remarked post-match, emphasizing the team’s ambition and the electric atmosphere, which he likened to playing in Egypt itself due to the fan support.

This victory is more than just three points; it’s a landmark moment for Egypt, overcoming a history of first-round exits in previous World Cup appearances (1934, 1990, and 2018). With this win, Egypt moves to the top of their group, setting a new benchmark for the nation’s World Cup journey.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/salah-revels-in-central-role-to-help-egypt-make-their-world-cup-mark-5505340