Mohamed Salah ensured he shook hands with the Australian squad after Egypt knocked the Socceroos out of the World Cup on Friday through a penalty shootout. The former Liverpool forward briefly celebrated before promptly approaching each of his opponents, with his classy conduct drawing widespread attention from supporters on social media.
The Pharaohs opened the scoring in the round-of-32 encounter courtesy of Emam Ashour's 13th-minute goal. Australia responded with a Mohamed Hany own goal midway through the second half. The two nations remained deadlocked, forcing the match into a penalty shootout. The Aussies had even introduced substitute goalkeeper Mat Ryan in place of Patrick Beach, who had started the tie, but were unable to advance.
Salah's Panenka and Viral Sportsmanship
Salah established the standard as he calmly converted with an audacious Panenka before Hossam Abdelmaguid eventually sent Egypt through, 4-2. Salah's determination to console his World Cup opponents has subsequently gone viral across social media. Numerous responses appeared on X. 'Pure class from Salah. Respect first, celebration second. That's real sportsmanship', one said. Another commented: 'What an absolute class act he is'.
The 34-year-old became visibly emotional following the triumph, which saw Egypt create history by claiming their maiden knockout-stage victory at a World Cup. 'It's history. I told the boys before the game that this is the biggest stage you can play on,' Salah said. 'Enjoy it and don't let the pressure get to you. I'm glad that we managed to win the game. Bad luck to them. I'm happy that we made history.'
Reflection on Penalty and Free Agency
Reflecting on his spectacular penalty, the winger said: 'If somebody was going to do it, it would be me. I am more experienced than others, and I wanted to give them confidence. I decided [in the] last minute, I don't know if it's my last World Cup or not, but I had to do it. I am more experienced than the others and I wanted to give them confidence. I decided at the last minute. I had to do it.'
Salah is presently a free agent following his departure from Liverpool this summer. The forward concluded nine years at Anfield having secured two Premier League titles, the Champions League and numerous other domestic honours.
Next Match Against Argentina
Next in line for Egypt is a tantalising encounter with reigning world champions Argentina. The fixture promises to be essential viewing for football purists with both Salah and Lionel Messi set to go head-to-head. Lionel Scaloni's team survived a major fright against World Cup newcomers Cape Verde on Friday evening, prevailing 3-2 in extra time. Egypt and Argentina will face off in Atlanta on Tuesday, July 7, for a spot in the quarter-finals.
