In the late 2000s, Egypt’s success in the Africa Cup of Nations was defined by forward-thinking attackers like Ahmed Hassan and Emad Moteab. Fast forward to the present, and with Mohamed Salah leading the charge, the mentality has shifted.

Egypt’s recent reliance on defensive strategies has brought them to two AFCON finals, but the lack of decisive finishers has left them falling short. Salah, now Egypt’s all-time leading goalscorer, shoulders both the goalscoring burden and creative responsibilities.

The current forward line includes Trézéguet and Mostafa Mohamed, but one player stands out as a potential relief for Salah – Omar Marmoush. Marmoush, thriving at Eintracht Frankfurt, has surpassed expectations with seven goals and three assists in 14 league games.

His versatility as a winger-turned-striker offers a variety of goals, from outmuscling defenders to long-range strikes. Under Frankfurt boss Dino Toppmöller, Marmoush’s newfound ability to play as a lone striker adds to his goal-scoring prowess.

Egypt’s manager, Rui Vitória, has taken notice of Marmoush’s improvement, considering him alongside Mohamed as a key goalscoring threat. Mohamed, a traditional No. 9, provides an aerial threat, but Marmoush’s dynamic style, with more shots on target, chances created, and progressive carries, complements Salah’s playmaking abilities.

Since their 2010 triumph, Egypt has faced challenges – often labeled AFCON favorites but struggling to deliver. Teams defend deep against the Pharaohs, who, lacking quality in attack, resort to defensive football.

With Marmoush in top form, there’s hope for a shift towards fluid football reminiscent of the golden generation. Salah remains Egypt’s shining star, but the need for a supporting cast is evident.

Marmoush, with his goal-scoring prowess and versatility, could be the missing piece in Egypt’s quest for AFCON glory. As the spotlight continues on Salah, Marmoush stands ready to shine as a fitting supporting act.