Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan struggled to contain his emotions after their historic 3-1 win over New Zealand at the World Cup. But the Pharaohs great couldn't resist a dig, seemingly, at the mishandling of Liverpool icon Mohamed Salah.
The 32-year-old showed that he still has top-level quality as he played a key role in their comeback win over the All Whites. Finn Surman powered home a first-half header for one of the competition's lowest-ranked nations.
But Egypt came out fighting for the second-half and Ziko levelled proceedings before the hour-mark before both he and Salah combined to complete the turnaround. The Liverpool icon's effort takes him to within one goal of equalling Hossam Hassan's record as all-time leading scorer for the country with 69 goals. Salah's impact wasn't done there as Trezeguet headed home late on to rubber-stamp a first World Cup win in their history.
Emotional scenes in Vancouver
There were joyous scenes in Vancouver, Canada as the Egypt bench streamed onto the pitch to celebrate the feat, which carried on into the changing room. Hassan ran across the touchline holding the flag aloft while the players congregated in the centre-circle to bask in the achievement after the full-time whistle.
During his pitch-side post-match interview, the 59-year-old couldn't hold back the emotions of a famous night in Egyptian football history. Tearing up, he said: "I am very happy with this victory, and I thank the entire Egyptian people for their support. This victory is dedicated to all Egyptians, both men and women. I am extremely happy, and my feelings are similar to those of millions of Egyptians after this win."
"We were successful in the match and put in a great effort, especially after the first half, which we ended with a goal against us. However, our performance improved, and we managed to win in the second half. I thank all the players, the technical and administrative staff. Everyone put in great effort to achieve the Egyptians' dream in the World Cup."
Sly dig at Salah's former coaches
Speaking to reporters after the win, he couldn't resist aiming a dig towards some of the tacticians that have had Salah at their disposal. The 32-year-old will officially become a free agent when the knockouts get underway next month after reaching an agreement with Liverpool to terminate his contract early.
The forward was embroiled in a bitter dispute with former Reds head coach Arne Slot during the Dutchman's final season in charge at Anfield. Salah was deployed in a central position, behind Manchester City's Omar Marmoush while being supported in either side in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
Hassan took credit for his part in apparently unlocking Salah. He said: "Salah worked hard on the pitch and this is something you should know. I am maybe the first coach to let him play in a position that matches his danger, that matches his capabilities and qualities. We worked on so many things and I am sure we are going to see more from him."
Historic win for Egypt
The victory marks Egypt's first ever World Cup win, a milestone for the nation. With Salah leading the line and Hassan's tactical adjustments, the Pharaohs are now looking ahead to the knockout stages with renewed confidence.
