Mohamed Salah is driving Egypt's 2026 World Cup campaign, with their place in the round of 32 secured after two matches.
What happened?
Mohamed Salah scored a goal and provided an assist against New Zealand, taking him to 66 in 116 caps and delivering Egypt's first ever World Cup win.
Why it matters for Mohamed Salah
This achievement is a testament to his enduring form, which has been consistent despite a previous injury that threatened his World Cup participation in 2018.
Mohamed Salah's rehabilitation took him to Benicàssim in Castellón, where trusted physio Rubén Pons oversaw an intense programme.
What comes next?
Now 34, Mohamed Salah is without a club and will reveal his next destination in the coming weeks, with suitors plentiful after his impressive World Cup performances.
And his current form has been impressive, with a draw with Belgium and victory over New Zealand securing Egypt's top spot before facing Iran.
But Mohamed Salah's journey to this point has been long, starting with his arrival in Europe with Basel in 2012, then joining Chelsea months before Valencia's famous comeback against the Swiss.
So his experience and skill will be crucial in the upcoming matches, as Egypt aims to advance further in the tournament.
Mohamed Salah's goal and assist against New Zealand on 23 June 2026 took him to 66 in 116 caps, a remarkable achievement for the Egyptian forward.
Background
Mohamed Salah's link to Benicàssim traces back to a previous injury in 2018, when he left the Champions League final against Real Madrid with a shoulder injury after a tangle with Sergio Ramos.
He made it to the World Cup that year, scoring in both defeats to hosts Russia and Saudi Arabia, and has since become one of the game's elite goalscorers.
Mohamed Salah's move to Liverpool in 2017 was a turning point in his career, with the club paying 42 million for the forward, and he has since become a key player for the team.
But now, as a free agent, Mohamed Salah's next move is eagerly anticipated, with many clubs vying for his signature.
And his decision will be crucial, not just for his own career, but for the fate of his future club, as he brings a level of skill and experience that few players can match.
Mohamed Salah's current form and impressive World Cup performances make him a highly sought-after player, and his next destination will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.