Mohamed Salah proved on Sunday that class never fades.
At 34, with many of football’s biggest stars approaching the final chapters of their careers, Salah reminded the world that he still has plenty left in the tank. While questions continue to surround aging icons at this World Cup, Egypt’s captain delivered when it mattered most — producing a goal and an assist in a crucial 3-1 victory over New Zealand national football team.
It wasn’t just another win. It was historic.
For the first time in their World Cup history, Egypt finally tasted victory on the grandest stage after seven previous failed attempts. The result also sent the Pharaohs to the top of Group G and gave them a genuine shot at reaching the knockout stages for the first time ever.
Salah’s performance in Vancouver felt like a throwback to his prime years. Calm, decisive, and dangerous every time he touched the ball, he stepped up exactly when his country needed him most.
Next up for Egypt is a huge showdown with Iran national football team in Seattle, where a place in the knockout rounds could be on the line.
Belgium’s Golden Generation Running Out of Time?
While Salah inspired hope for Egypt, the mood around Belgium national football team could not be more different.
Their veteran stars, Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne, struggled badly in a frustrating goalless draw against Iran — a result that leaves Belgium in a dangerous position heading into their final group match.
For years, Belgium’s so-called “Golden Generation” promised so much but delivered little on the world stage. The squad that once featured legends like Eden Hazard, Vincent Kompany, and Jan Vertonghen has faded, and the current team looks far from its peak.
Lukaku, Belgium’s all-time leading scorer, looked far from his best against Iran. He failed to register a single shot on target and barely troubled the opposition before being substituted in the 73rd minute.
De Bruyne, once one of the most feared midfielders in world football, also looked a shadow of himself. His passing lacked sharpness, his movement lacked urgency, and fatigue was visible throughout the game.
In truth, Belgium now look like a team clinging to the final moments of an era.
Salah Still Leading from the Front
Salah’s journey with Egypt has always carried immense pressure.
Despite his incredible success at Liverpool F.C., international football has often been a different story. Egypt are giants in African football, with a record seven AFCON titles, but World Cup success had always escaped them.
Until now.
Against New Zealand, Salah produced the kind of performance his country has waited years to see. His goal — a trademark left-footed finish inside the box — was vintage Salah. He also delivered the corner that led to Trézéguet’s header, sealing the victory.
According to Opta, Salah was involved in 10 chances during the game — five shots and five chances created — more than any other player at this World Cup so far.
He also moved within one goal of matching Egypt’s all-time scoring record, currently held by head coach Hossam Hassan.
At a tournament where many legends are showing signs of decline, Salah is proving he still belongs among the elite.
For Belgium, the question remains whether Lukaku and De Bruyne can produce one last big performance against New Zealand.
For Egypt, Salah has already shown that sometimes, the old magic is still the most powerful.
