Salah 'the best thing to happen to Egyptian football' after breaking goalscoring record

  • Mohamed Salah has written his name into history books once again, with his double against Malawi bringing up a special record.

Egypt head coach Ali Maher says Mohamed Salah is "the best thing that has happened to Egyptian football" after he became the nation's all-time leading scorer.

Salah wrote his name into Egypt's history books on Friday after netting twice in a dominant 5-0 win over Malawi in Africa Cup of Nations qualifying.

His brace took him to 70 goals for his country, overtaking former head coach Hossam Hassan – who was dismissed as Egypt boss last week – in their goalscoring charts.

Salah equalled Hassan's record in the 84th minute but ensured he took the accolade for himself in some style as he beat the goalkeeper with a Panenka penalty in stoppage time.

The 34-year-old made his debut in 2011 and has reached his tally in 123 appearances.

And Maher, who took charge of Egypt for the first time against Malawi, making a dream start, had high praise for the captain.

"Mohamed Salah is the role model and the best thing that has happened to Egyptian football," Maher said.

"We must treat him accordingly."