Mohamed Salah two goals away from legendary AFCON record

05.01.26 AET AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations

Egypt

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:

Benin

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Mohamed Salah continues to engrave his name deeper into Egyptian football history after breaking long standing Africa Cup of Nations record previously held by his head coach, Hossam Hassan.

The Liverpool forward made his 22nd AFCON appearance during Egypt’s Round of 16 clash against Benin at AFCON 2025 in Morocco overtaking Hassan who featured in 21 match between 1985 & 2006.

Salah closes in on Egypt’s All Time AFCON scoring record

Salah’s influence went beyond appearances. The Egyptian captain found the net against Benin to raise his AFCON tally to 10 goal placing him third on Egypt’s all time AFCON scorers list.

Only two legends now stand ahead of him:

• Hassan El Shazly – Egypt’s all time AFCON top scorer
• Hossam Hassan – second on the list

Salah now sits just one goal behind Hossam Hassan and two goal short of El Shazly’s historic record putting the milestone firmly within reach.

Torn Shirt, Defiant response & decisive goal

The 33 year old stole the spotlight during dramatic encounter that saw Egypt defeat Benin 3 -1 after extra time securing qualification for the quarter finals.

As the match neared its conclusion, cameras caught Salah with torn shirt following heavy challenge from Benin defender. Moments later, the Egyptian star delivered the perfect response.

In the 123 minute Salah latched onto precise pass from Ahmed Mostafa Zizo before firing home Egypt’s third goal sealing the win in emphatic fashion.

Strong AFCON 2025 campaign continues

Salah has now scored three goal in the current AFCON edition having previously found the net against Zimbabwe & South Africa during the group stage.

Egypt will face the winner of the heavyweight quarter final clash between defending champions Ivory Coast & Burkina Faso as the Pharaohs continue their pursuit of eighth continental title.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

Related teams and leagues

Egypt

Benin

AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations