Salah's Liverpool Future Looms as Egypt Faces South Africa in AFCON 2025 Showdown

While Liverpool holds its breath over his future, Mohamed Salah has a different prize in his sights: ending Egypt's15-year wait for an Africa Cup of Nations title. The Pharaohs are set to face a resurgent South Africa this Friday in a titans' clash at AFCON 2025.

The Anfield Fallout and Saudi Interest

The buildup to the tournament has been dominated by speculation over Salah's club future. His public spat with Liverpool—where he claimed he was "thrown under the bus" for the team's poor start—has fueled transfer rumors. While Reds manager Arne Slot stated the club has "moved on," the larger picture suggests an offer from Saudi Arabia is highly likely in the January transfer window, according to Al Jazeera Sport.

However, Egypt's coach, Hossam Hassan, insists his superstar is fully focused on the task at hand. Salah has twice been an AFCON runner-up, in 2017 and 2021, but has yet to add an international trophy to his extensive list of club honors.

A Ticket to the Knockouts on the Line

Both nations started their campaigns with victories, each sitting on three points. Egypt secured a last-gasp 2-1 win over Zimbabwe thanks to a Salah winner. Meanwhile, South Africa defeated Angola 2-1, marking their first opening-match win at an AFCON in 21 years. The winner of Friday's match will secure their spot in the round of 16.

The head-to-head record is tight, with Bafana Bafana holding a slight edge with five wins to Egypt's four. South Africa famously upset the Egyptians 1-0 in the round of 16 at the 2019 tournament. Still, Egypt remains the most successful nation in the competition's history with a record seven titles, and they're desperate to claim their first since 2010.