AFCON 2025: Salah Urges Egypt to Stay Grounded, Says Pharaohs "Are Not Favourites"

Egypt captain Mohamed Salah has urged his teammates to stay grounded as the Pharaohs continue their campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, insisting that Egypt should not be considered favourites to lift the trophy.

The seven-time African champions secured their place in the quarter-finals after a gritty 3–1 extra-time victory over Benin. Once again, Salah led by example, scoring Egypt’s crucial third goal on Monday night to cap a standout performance. The goal took the Liverpool forward’s tally to three goals in three matches at the tournament.

Speaking to Cafonline.com, Salah emphasized the need for focus and realism within the squad.

“I don’t think we are favourites,” he said after the match. “We have young players, most of them playing back home in Egypt. We are just fighting for our country, then we see where we can go. Everyone here just wants to give their best.”