Salah Doubles as Egypt Cruise, Nigeria Edge Closer to Afcon 2027

Mohamed Salah was the difference for Egypt, scoring twice in a comfortable win over Malawi in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. The Egypt captain has been the most dependable attacking presence in the national team for years, and a two-goal return in a fixture like this is the kind of routine business that keeps the Pharaohs on track for the finals.

Nigeria also took three points, beating Tanzania in a result that boosts their chances of qualifying. The Super Eagles have much to play for in this campaign, and a win away from home or on neutral ground, depending on the venue, gives them valuable breathing room in the group.

The fixture carries extra interest because Tanzania is one of three countries co-hosting the 2027 tournament, alongside Kenya and Uganda. Qualification is never guaranteed for any side, and every result shapes how the groups look as the campaign moves on. For Egypt, the message from the night was control and efficiency. For Nigeria, the priority now is turning a win into a sustained push toward the finals.