World Cup 2026: Mohamed Salah targets rare record ahead of Egypt’s clash with Iran

Egypt captain Mohamed Salah will head into the Pharaohs’ decisive FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage encounter against Iran aiming to achieve a rare milestone in tournament history.

The Egyptian star is expected to lead his country on Saturday morning in Seattle as Egypt looks to secure qualification to the knockout stage for the first time ever.

Egypt Close to Historic Qualification

The Pharaohs currently sit top of Group G with four points, holding a two-point advantage over both Iran and Belgium heading into the final round of matches.

Following a 1-1 draw against Belgium and a 3-1 victory over New Zealand, Egypt’s chances of progressing to the second round appear stronger than ever.

With qualification within reach, attention has also turned to Salah’s remarkable individual form at the tournament.

Salah Chasing Historic World Cup Record

According to Opta statistics, Salah could become the first player since James Rodriguez at the 2014 FIFA World Cup to contribute to goals in each of his first five World Cup appearances.

The Egyptian forward only featured in two matches during the 2018 World Cup after missing the opening fixture against Uruguay through injury. Despite that setback, he scored against both Russia and Saudi Arabia.

Salah has continued his strong World Cup form in the current edition by providing an assist against Belgium before delivering both a goal and an assist in Egypt’s victory over New Zealand.

If he either scores or provides an assist against Iran, the Liverpool legend will reach another significant landmark in his international career.

Pharaohs’ World Cup Star

Salah is already Egypt’s all-time leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history with three goals, while also contributing two assists for the national team on football’s biggest stage.

His influence has once again been central to Egypt’s campaign as the Pharaohs attempt to make history in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Following the Path of James Rodriguez

The last player to achieve such a streak was Colombian star James Rodriguez during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Rodriguez enjoyed a sensational tournament, scoring against Greece, Ivory Coast, and Japan in the group stage while also providing two assists against the Japanese side.

The former Real Madrid midfielder continued his brilliance in the knockout rounds by netting twice against Uruguay before scoring once more against Brazil.

He eventually finished the competition with six goals and two assists, establishing himself as one of the standout players of the tournament.

Now, Salah stands on the verge of joining the Colombian in an exclusive piece of World Cup history if he delivers once again against Iran.