Egypt’s star winger Mohamed Salah is optimistic about his return to Qatar with the national team to play at the 2022 World Cup, seeking fans’ support amid the current rebuilding process.
The 27-year-old Salah helped Liverpool win the Club World Cup title after a 1-0 victory over Brazil’s Flamengo at the Khalifa International stadium in Doha on Saturday.
“I am optimistic to return here with Egypt’s national team to play at the World Cup in 2022,” the Liverpool star told beIN Sports TV channel after the match.
Under the guidance of new coach Hossam El-Badry, Egypt is competing in both the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers alongside the 2022 World Cup qualifiers.
Egypt made their first World Cup appearance in 28 years at the 2018 edition in Russia, but was eliminated from the first round after three back-to-back losses to Uruguay, Russia and Saudi Arabia.
Since El-Badry’s appointment in September, Egypt won two friendly matches in preparations for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, beating Botswana 1-0 in October before claiming a late 1-0 win over Liberia in early November.
However, El-Badry faced criticism due to a disappointing start of the qualifying campaign after the Pharaohs drew in two matches against Kenya and Comoros on 14 and 18 November respectively.
“We are establishing a new team and we need the fans’ support at this stage,” added Salah, who won the Golden Ball award for the Club World Cup best player.
Egypt are now second in their Group G standings with two points, while Comoros lead the group with four points, after they defeated Togo 1-0 in the first round.
Source: Ahram Online
