Salah scores twice as Egypt qualifies for 2026 World Cup with win over Djibouti

Mohamed Salah is going back to the World Cup with Egypt next summer. The Liverpool superstar scored twice in a 3-0 victory over Djibouti on Wednesday to ensure Egypt will top its African qualifying group with one round to spare.

Salah opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a composed finish after a clever through ball from Mahmoud Trezeguet. The Egyptian captain doubled his tally in the 54th minute, calmly converting a penalty after Omar Marmoush was brought down inside the box. His brace once again highlighted his importance to the national side and his remarkable consistency in front of goal.

Substitute Mostafa Mohamed sealed the victory late in the game with a close-range strike, putting the result beyond doubt. The win guarantees Egypt’s place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It marks Egypt’s second consecutive World Cup appearance after narrowly missing out on qualification for the 2022 edition.

Coach Rui Vitória praised his team’s discipline and focus throughout the qualification campaign. Egypt dominated their group, winning all of their matches so far and conceding just one goal. Salah, who now has 12 goals in this qualifying cycle, continues to lead by example both on and off the pitch.

The Egyptian fans celebrated passionately across Cairo and other cities, waving flags and chanting Salah’s name. For many, this qualification represents redemption and a fresh start for a team determined to make a stronger impact on the world stage. With Salah in top form, Egypt will head into the World Cup full of belief and ambition.