When Salah Strikes, Sparks Fly: AFCON Night Turns Live TV into a Debate
11 January 2026
AFCON 2025: Salah's goal sparks a live TV controversy
Egyptian TV host Amr Adib drew sharp criticism for his exuberant celebration after Mohamed Salah, the Pharaohs' captain, sealed a 3-2 victory over Ivory Coast in the Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal on Saturday.
The win sent Egypt into the semifinals to face Senegal on Wednesday. Salah converted the decisive third goal seven minutes into the second half, aided by Imam Ashour's superb assist, lifting the team and putting the Ivory Coast under relentless pressure.
Meanwhile, Adib's live reaction contrasted with other news of the day: a deadly highway crash near Minya that claimed 11 lives and injured nine. His loud cheers were seen by many as insensitive, sparking a flood of criticism on social media.
The broadcast moment has reignited debate about on-air conduct during sports coverage and the responsibility of media figures when tragedy strikes.
Video clips of the minute five celebration are now widely shared, fueling discussions about context and timing in live television.
Note: Punchline 1: If emotions were ads, that moment needed a pause button.
Note: Punchline 2: Maybe next time Adib should celebrate with a disclaimer—'the goal comes with a side of sensitivity'.
