Salah Humble After Goal Powers Egypt into AFCON Quarter-Finals

AGADIR: Mohamed Salah has urged caution regarding Egypt’s title credentials even as his extra-time heroics secured the Pharaohs a spot in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-finals.

The Liverpool forward scored a clinical third goal on Monday to seal a hard-fought 3-1 victory over a resilient Benin side. Despite the win, the 33-year-old captain was quick to manage expectations for a nation seeking a record-extending eighth continental crown.

Egypt were pushed to the limit by Benin, requiring extra time to break the deadlock after the match finished 1-1 in regulation. “The level is quite similar across the continent now,” Salah told reporters after the match. “I told the team that no side loses by four or five goals anymore. Benin have a good team and a good coach, and I’m glad we managed to win in the end.”

Despite Egypt’s historical dominance in the tournament—having won it seven times—Salah insists that the current squad, led by coach Hossam Hassan, are underdogs.

“I don’t think we are a favorite at all,” Salah admitted. “We have many young players, and most of them play domestically in Egypt. We are just here to fight for our country. You could see today that everybody gives their best, but we are taking it one game at a time.”

Egypt are bidding for their first AFCON trophy since 2010. Their next challenge will be a heavyweight clash in Agadir this Saturday, where they will face either defending champions Ivory Coast or Burkina Faso.