Mohamed Salah continues to strengthen his legacy as one of Africa’s greatest footballers, delivering another landmark moment at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). His decisive goal against Benin not only secured Egypt’s place in the quarter-finals but also saw him surpass Didier Drogba on the continent’s all-time international scorers list.
The Liverpool forward was the hero on January 5, 2026, as Egypt edged Benin in a dramatic Round of 16 encounter. After a tense contest that ended 1–1 in regulation time, the seven-time champions found the breakthrough in extra time. Yasser Ibrahim restored Egypt’s advantage before Salah struck deep into stoppage time, sealing a 3–1 victory at the Grand Stade d’Agadir.
Benin had frustrated Egypt for long periods, showing resilience and organisation, but Salah’s late intervention proved decisive. His goal carried historic significance, taking his international tally to 66 goals and pushing him ahead of Ivorian legend Didier Drogba on Africa’s all-time scorers chart.
According to African football expert Gary Al-Smith, Salah now trails only three players in continental history: his current national team head coach, Hossam Hassan (69 goals), Malawi great Kinnah Phiri (71), and Zambia icon Godfred Chitalu (79). With Egypt still in contention and Salah already scoring three goals at this tournament, those records remain within reach.
Despite the individual milestone, Salah’s focus remains firmly on team success. The 33-year-old is determined to lift the AFCON trophy, having come agonisingly close on two previous occasions. He finished runner-up with Egypt in 2017 after defeat to Cameroon and again in 2021 when Senegal prevailed on penalties. Those near misses continue to fuel his ambition.
Egypt, the most successful nation in AFCON history with seven titles, will now face either Ivory Coast or Burkina Faso in the quarter-finals. A potential semi-final clash against Mali or Senegal could follow, presenting further challenges on the road to glory. Nevertheless, confidence and momentum are growing within the Pharaohs’ camp.
For Salah, records may continue to fall, but the ultimate objective remains clear. Individual accolades are secondary to silverware, and if Egypt are to claim another continental crown, their talisman will once again be central to the story.
In another notable AFCON milestone, Real Madrid forward Brahim Díaz became the first Moroccan player to score in four consecutive Africa Cup of Nations matches. Díaz currently leads the tournament’s scoring chart with four goals, surpassing the previous record held by Ahmed Faras.
Source: Yen.com.gh
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