Mohamed Salah's beaming smile after firing Egypt into the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals could signal the start of something significant for Liverpool. The forward's sparkling form on the international stage offers a timely boost for both his country and his club.
Salah's Moment of Magic Seals Egypt's Progress
With Egypt clinging to a narrow lead deep into added time of extra-time against Benin, the pressure was immense. A long throw into their penalty area was cleared, finding Salah in space just inside the opposition half. As the goalkeeper hesitated, the Liverpool star seized his moment. From 30 yards, he executed a sublime, curving finish with the outside of his left boot to secure a 2-0 victory and a place in the last eight.
The sheer joy on Salah's face was unmistakable. It was the expression of a player rediscovering his verve at a crucial moment. For Egypt, it meant progression; for watching Liverpool supporters, it offered a tantalising glimpse of their talisman returning to his devastating best.
A Timely Break from Club Pressures
This AFCON adventure appears to have arrived at an ideal juncture for the 33-year-old. Prior to the tournament, Salah's form for Liverpool in the first half of the 2025/26 season had been uncharacteristically subdued, with just five goals and four assists in 20 appearances. The narrative around him was dominated by a reported rift with manager Arne Slot, stemming from a controversial interview, which led to him being dropped.
Contrast that with his demeanour in Ivory Coast. In post-match comments following the Benin game, he spoke passionately about the "honour of representing his country." This is Salah unburdened by the club-side pressures that had weighed him down at Anfield. As a fierce patriot, his dream of success with Egypt, 14 years after his debut, is a powerful motivator.
What Salah's AFCON Run Means for Liverpool
Egypt's continued involvement means Salah will miss key fixtures for Liverpool, including the Premier League clash at Arsenal and the FA Cup tie against Barnsley. By the time he returns, he will have missed a minimum of six club matches.
While Liverpool have coped reasonably well in his absence—winning two and drawing two of four league games—the absence of a truly in-form Salah has been felt. However, his potential return to peak condition could be transformative. Manager Arne Slot, who has suggested the rift with the player is healed, needs all the attacking options he can get, especially with Alexander Isak injured and Hugo Ekitike facing fitness issues.
The sight of Salah taking a 'lap of appreciation' after his last Anfield game against Brighton had even prompted captain Virgil van Dijk to admit uncertainty over his future. That scenario now looks far less likely. With three goals in three games at AFCON, Salah is emphatically playing himself back into form.
His delayed return, therefore, shifts from being a squad headache to a potential strategic boon. Liverpool are not just getting back a player; they are potentially welcoming back a confident, hungry, and prolific Mohamed Salah. For Egyptians dreaming of AFCON glory, and for Liverpool fans hoping for a strong finish to the season, that sparkling smile in Ivory Coast is a very welcome sight indeed.
