Mohamed Salah Sets Record on 34th Birthday During FIFA World Cup Match

Mohamed Salah celebrated his 34th birthday by making history in the FIFA World Cup, assisting a goal during Egypt's match against Belgium. This remarkable achievement marks him as the first African player to assist on his birthday in the tournament's long history. Despite the draw, Egypt continues its quest for a first World Cup victory, having participated only four times. Discover more about Salah's incredible milestone and Egypt's journey in the World Cup.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 16, 2026, 05:23 IST

Salah's Historic Moment

On his 34th birthday, Mohamed Salah made history as Egypt began their 2026 FIFA World Cup journey with a crucial draw against Belgium on June 15 at Seattle Stadium. The match ended in a 1-1 tie, with Egypt initially taking the lead in the first half before Belgium equalized in the second. Salah played a pivotal role by assisting Emam Ashour's goal, which was a stunning left-footed strike from outside the box. This marked Salah's first assist in World Cup history, although he had previously scored twice in the 2018 tournament. As one of Africa's greatest footballers, this is only Salah's second World Cup appearance, following Egypt's absence in 2014 and 2022.

Salah's Unique Achievement

Mohamed Salah Creates History

With this assist, Salah has become the first African player to assist a goal on his birthday in the 96-year history of the FIFA World Cup. He joins an exclusive group as the fourth player ever to achieve this milestone on their birthday. Notably, he is the oldest among this select group, with all other players being 30 years or older.

Players To Assist A Goal On Birthday In FIFA World Cup History

Player	Birthday	Team	Opponent	Year
Luigi Di Biagio	31st	Italy	Ecuador	2002
Patrick Vieira	30th	France	Togo	2006
Ola Toivonen	32nd	Sweden	Germany	2018
Mohamed Salah	34th	Egypt	Belgium	2026

Egypt's Quest for Victory

Mohamed Salah Aims To Guide Egypt To First Win

This World Cup marks Egypt's fourth appearance, following their previous participations in 1934, 1950, and 2018, yet they are still in search of their inaugural victory. The team came close to breaking a 92-year winless streak but ultimately settled for a draw after an own goal allowed Belgium to equalize. In total, Egypt has played eight World Cup matches, resulting in three draws and five losses.