Egypt had a good start as they began their 2019 African Cup of Nation campaign with a win against their opening match opponents Zimbabwe, who were not a walk in the park. Dominant for a greater part of the much, the Pharaohs managed to break down outgunned but well-drilled challengers in the 41st minute, thanks to Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet.
However, the most talked about Egyptian player Mohammed Salah did not secure any goal in the match but his display in the field was a thing to reckon with.
salah's chance pic.twitter.com/zPYVOkcYrY
— محمد علي (@Mohamme04026924) June 21, 2019
He is the mainstay for the Pharaohs, so much of their attacking play went through the Liverpool red-hot star. Though he was unlucky not to score but was so lively in his 90 minutes in the field. Arguably, Salah was off to a good start. This was supported by the statistics of his play in the field.
While his chances were kept slim by Zimbabwean left-back defender Divine Lunga, the 27-year-old managed 72% pass accuracy, with 2 key passes, 4/7 key passes, and 2/3 complete dribbles.
Mohamed Salah vs. Zimbabwe
72% Pass accuracy
2 Key passes
4/7 Shots on target
2/3 Dribbles completeHe is the linchpin for this Egyptian side, so much of their attacking play goes through the Liverpool forward. Unlucky not to score, but so lively. Salah is off to a good start. pic.twitter.com/L58Z4Ffvbl
— The Tactical Times (@Tactical_Times) June 21, 2019
Egypt will now be meeting DR Congo on Wednesday 26 June before concluding their group stage matches against Uganda on Sunday 30 June.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEv3JfIA368