Mohamed Salah has done it. His Egypt scoring record is now official after he struck twice in a 5-0 win over Malawi in Cairo on Friday, lifting his national tally to 70 goals and passing Hossam Hassan as the country’s all-time top scorer.
History made in Cairo
The record came late. Salah headed home at the far post in the 84th minute to move past Hassan’s mark. Goals from Nasser Maher, Omar Marmoush and Mohamed Hany had already put Egypt 3-0 up by half-time.
It was also a fresh start on the touchline. New coach Ali Maher took charge after Hassan was dismissed as coach last week, and Egypt now lead Group B in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers with seven points from three games, three ahead of Angola.
Tunisia’s nightmare continues
While Egypt celebrated, North African rivals Tunisia stumbled. They lost 2-0 at home to Libya in Sfax. Ali Youssef scored a penalty just before half-time, and Hamdou El Houni added a second in the 62nd minute.
Tunisia have two points from their Group H campaign and are in danger of missing next year’s finals. That would end their record run of 17 straight appearances. They were the only African team at this year’s World Cup to fall at the group stage, and they sacked coach Sabri Lamouchi after their first defeat. Current coach Mouin Chaabani’s short reign is now under threat.
Winners and strugglers across the continent
There was drama elsewhere too. Cape Verde, who impressed at the World Cup by reaching the second round, beat Liberia 4-2 at home. Nigeria bounced back from a 3-0 loss to Guinea-Bissau with a 3-1 win over Tanzania, thanks to two goals from striker Tolu Arokodare. South Africa and Zambia, both past winners, were frustrated by draws at home.
Why it matters
For Egyptians, Salah’s record is more than a number. He has carried his country through good and bad years, and fans from Cairo to Aswan see him as a hero. For young African players, it shows what long-term consistency can build.
The Pharaohs now have a new coach, a new record-holder and a strong lead. Tunisia, by contrast, must rebuild fast. With qualifiers only halfway done, every point counts.
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