Will Salah score for Egypt for a second consecutive AFCON match as the Pharoahs face a Group B showdown with Ghana? With so much on the line, we've delved into ever-popular Egypt vs Ghana first goalscorer prediction market.
Salah left it late to help Egypt secure a point against Mozambique in a 2-2 opening match draw, after the pre-match underdogs had a 2-1 lead in second-half injury time, before Salah’s 97th-minute penalty earned his side a point.
Ghana awaits Egypt next in Group B in a huge AFCON group-stage clash. After a shock 2-1 defeat and blunt performance against Cape Verde, the Black Stars will have to improve in front of goal to avoid a shock elimination.
Will Salah score for Egypt?
Although Salah left it late to strike against Mozambique, but he was active throughout the contest, with four shots on goal. The penalty conversion was also Salah’s fifth international goal in his last four appearances, and the Egypt captain comes into the Ghana clash in strong form.
Ghana also showed plenty of defensive frailties against Cape Verde, making it nine goals conceded in their last six matches. Salah will therefore be feeling confident of striking early against an out-of-form Ghana side. He is currently 15/4 to open the scoring.
Egypt vs Ghana first goalscorer prediction – other picks
Mostafa Mohamed (Egypt)
Striker Mostafa Mohamed started as the furthest forward attacking player for Egypt against Mozambique. The Nantes striker also made a blistering start to his AFCON campaign, as he opened the scoring after just two minutes.
Mohamed has been entrusted by Egypt boss Rui Vitória to lead the line in recent matches. Ultimately, the 26-year-old has rewarded his manager with two goals in his last four games.
With plenty of attention on Salah from Ghanaian defenders, Mohamed might be awarded space to strike early again.
Mohammed Kudus (Ghana)
Mohammed Kudus was a shock omission from the Ghana side that lost 2-1 to Cape Verde. However, the West Ham midfielder is expected to return for the Black Stars in this crucial clash against Egypt.
Kudus’ anticipated comeback could be vital for Chris Hughton’s team. In AFCON qualifying, the 23-year-old notched three goals in just five starts. The midfielder was also in strong form for West Ham before his recent injury, scoring four goals in six Premier League matches.
A Kudus return will likely add more direct play to a Ghana side that registered just one shot on target against Cape Verde.
Iñaki Williams (Ghana)
With Antoine Semenyo failing to register a shot against Cape Verde, Houghton could bring Iñaki Williams into the starting lineup as a replacement.
The Sevilla forward showed glimpses of quality in his 30-minute cameo against Cape Verde after coming off the substitute bench, which may provide more dynamism for the Black Stars.
Williams joined the Ghana AFCON squad in solid La Liga form after scoring three goals in his previous five. The 29-year-old also opened the scoring with his first-ever international goal against Madagascar in November.
If given the chance by Houghton, Williams will provide a genuine goal threat against Egypt and a quickfire goal from the Sevilla striker is not out of the question.
