From despair to ecstasy: Incredible scenes as Egypt qualify for the World Cup for the first time in 27 years

Mohamed Salah celebrates with fans.Reuters

Liverpool star Mohamed Salah had an eventful night as the Egypt national team qualified for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in dramatic style.

The attacking midfielder put Egypt 1-0 against Congo during Sunday’s qualifying game, putting the side on course for its first World Cup appearance since 1990.

But with nothing less than a win being good enough, Egypt’s dream looked to be in tatters when Congo’s Arnold Bouka Moutou equalised in the 88th minute.

Salah was heartbroken, as this video captures:

But five minutes into stoppage time, Egypt had a lifeline when it was awarded a penalty. Up stepped Salah, who held his nerve to make himself a national hero.

You can watch Salah’s penalty here:

The goal sparked wild celebrations, not least from the TV commentator, who could be heard crying when Salah thumped home his goal.

Victory meant Egypt had extended its qualifying group lead to 4 points. With just one round of matches remaining and with qualification guaranteed, it was carnival time.