Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi believes the 2026 FIFA World Cup could be Mohamed Salah’s defining moment with Egypt, Footynaija reports.
After as Salah leads Egypt at the tournament in North America, Akpeyi has challenged the Liverpool star to leave a lasting legacy on the international stage.
Speaking on SuperSport before Egypt’s opening match against Belgium, Akpeyi pointed to the Pharaohs’ disappointing outing at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where they failed to record a single win.
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“For the Egyptian team, It is quite unfortunate that the last World Cup they played in 2018, they didn’t win any games in that group,” Akpeyi said.
With Salah now one of the most influential figures in Egyptian football history, Akpeyi feels the tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada presents a rare opportunity for the forward to achieve something special with his national team.
“Mo Salah this is one of the tournaments he would want to drop everything and leave your name on gold before you leave the national team because this could actually be his last national team engagement,” he added.
Akpeyi also highlighted the setbacks Salah has endured in recent seasons but insisted that the World Cup offers the perfect stage to make a powerful statement.
“Unfortunately, he has been having a series of injuries and issues with Liverpool. But as a soccer player, you want to say, this is a time for me to give everything, leave and bow with gold on my hand.”
Salah made an immediate impact in Egypt’s first game, providing the assist for Emam Ashour’s opener as the midfielder drilled a low shot into the corner from outside the area. However, the Pharaohs were denied victory when Mohamed Hany’s own goal in the 66th minute handed Belgium a 1-1 draw.
Up next for Egypt is a tricky clash with New Zealand before the Pharaohs tackle Iran in their last group match.
