Mohamed Salah’s showing vs Zimbabwe prompts a familiar national media verdict

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Mohamed Salah was the centre of attention as Egypt opened their AFCON campaign with a 2-1 win.It is that time of year again when Liverpool have to manage without Salah, who is away on international duty. Following a public outburst, he dramatically departed, leaving his potential return uncertain.Salah’s focus now shifts entirely to Egypt, where expectations are high.

He is under pressure to lead them to his first AFCON title, and their campaign is off to a positive start after beating Zimbabwe.The Liverpool idol scored a stoppage-time winner to secure all three points, but the reaction from Egyptian media captured his performance well.Photo by Stringer/Anadolu via Getty ImagesThere is no questioning what Salah has accomplished in his career. His performances at club level have not been quite up to his usual standard this season, and that form carried over into Egypt’s AFCON opener as well.The national media did not hold back.

Even though he scored the winner, many pointed out that he looked off the pace for much of the match.Al Jazeera noted: “Salah had come into the tournament in Morocco under the spotlight following a fiery outburst after being dropped by the Premier League champions and struggled to find his rhythm for most of the match.”Meanwhile, Al-Ahram said: “The Liverpool forward had little influence for much of the contest but proved decisive at the death.”Salah has always had a knack for scoring when it matters. And he does not seem too happy about it either.Mo Salah’s next fixture for EgyptWith a bit of confidence potentially gained from his late winner, all eyes will be on how Salah performs in his next outing for Egypt.That match is set for Boxing Day, where they will be up against South Africa, another side who opened their tournament with a 2-1 victory.Their final group game is against Angola, though if Egypt pick up another win beforehand, progression could already be assured by then.Liverpool fans are understandably eager to have Salah back soon, especially given Alexander Isak’s recent injury.