Liverpool talisman Mohamed Salah was the star of the show as Egypt sealed their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 3-0 victory over Djibouti on Wednesday.
The Pharaohs’ captain netted a brace in the encounter, ensuring his nation finished top of their African qualifying group with one round of matches left to play.
The result means Egypt have become one of the first African nations to confirm qualification for the expanded 48-team World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The tournament will feature nine African representatives, the continent’s highest-ever number of slots, with the official group-stage draw scheduled for December 5 in Washington, D.C.
For Salah, the qualification marks a personal redemption journey. The Liverpool forward had led Egypt to the 2018 World Cup in Russia, ending the nation’s 28-year absence from the global stage. However, his campaign was marred by a shoulder injury sustained during the UEFA Champions League final against Real Madrid just weeks before the tournament.
Egypt endured a disappointing outing in that edition, losing all three group-stage matches, to hosts Russia, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia and finishing bottom of their group.
This time around, Egypt’s qualification reflects a more balanced and cohesive team under coach Rui Vitória, with Salah’s leadership and consistency once again proving decisive.
The Pharaohs will now shift their focus to fine-tuning their preparations as they aim for a stronger showing on the world stage in 2026.
