Mohamed Salah showcased his brilliance by scoring four goals as Egypt secured a dominant 6-0 victory over Djibouti in their first 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
Meanwhile, Nigeria faced a surprising 1-1 draw at home against Lesotho.
Lesotho, ranked 113 places below Nigeria, took an unexpected lead with Motlomelo Mkwanazi's 56th-minute goal. Semi Ajayi, the West Brom centre-back, responded for the Super Eagles with a powerful header from Kelechi Iheanacho's corner. Despite their efforts, Nigeria couldn't find a winner in the rainy Uyo.
Egypt's Salah, on the other hand, stole the show with goals in the 17th minute, a penalty in the 22nd minute, completing his hat-trick shortly after the break, and adding a fourth with 20 minutes remaining. Mostafa Mohamed and Trezeguet also contributed goals in Egypt's 6-0 victory over Djibouti.
In other results, Algeria triumphed 3-1 against Somalia, Mozambique secured a 3-2 away win over Botswana, Gabon came from behind to beat Kenya 2-1, and Burundi claimed a 3-2 win over The Gambia in a match played in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Sudan drew 1-1 against Togo, and Cape Verde and Angola played to a 0-0 draw in their respective group openers.
Africa has nine guaranteed spots for the 2026 World Cup, with group winners earning direct qualification to the tournament hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
