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As the curtain falls on 2023, the soccer world witnesses another chapter in the saga of the global influence of Lionel Messi. A surprising statistic has emerged that has rewritten the pecking order of fan loyalty in a nation synonymous with its soccer icon. Messi’s dominance extends into digital viewership, where he stands as the most-watched player across various nations. The most surprising twist unfolds in the land of Pharaohs, Egypt.

Lionel Messi has triumphed over Egypt’s Mohamed Salah, emerging as the most-viewed soccer player in the country. Let’s delve into the details of this surprising revelation.

Lionel Messi hands surprising defeat to Mohamed Salah on his home turf

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A recently released report unveiled Messi’s stratospheric rise in 2023, as he claims the throne for the most-viewed player worldwide. While Messi’s global reign is undisputed, the outcome reverberated most intensely in Egypt. In a nation where Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah is an inspiration and hero, Messi eclipsed his stardom. As per the fbref.stats report, Lionel Messi has overtaken Salah to become Egypt’s most-viewed player in 2023.

 

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Though many players were favored by their country in viewership, like Lewandowski in Poland, and Cristiano Ronaldo in Portugal, Salah’s snub from the Egyptians came as a surprise. However, with the rise of digital streaming and social media, Messi’s ability to captivate audiences across the world was commendable.

So, does this mean Salah’s reign is over? Not quite. While Messi’s global dominance shines brighter, Salah remains a beloved icon in Egypt, a symbol of hope and national pride. With the Africa Cup of Nations tournament looming on the horizon, Salah could lead his nation to triumph and reclaim his throne in 2024.

READ MORE: “Chelsea Decided to Sell Him”- Jose Mourinho Didn’t Want Mohamed Salah to Leave Chelsea, But Opted for a Loan Deal

Egypt NT coach likens Salah’s impact with Messi and Ronaldo

Mohamed Salah’s impact on the Egypt national team is lauded by his coach Rui Vitoria. Although Salah has not tasted a continental crown with his country, his coach expressed his belief in the star and likened his impact to that of Messi and Ronaldo.

Salah is very important in our national team. We remember a Messi, we remember a Cristiano Ronaldo, we remember a Salah. The big teams have a player like this. And our Salah brings great positivity to the whole group,” Vitoria told Record of how Salah will be remembered alongside the modern greats.

As fans eagerly wait for the next twist in this tale, all eyes will be on Mohamed Salah. Will he lead his nation to the AFCON glory in coming months, and reclaim his spot as the most-viewed star in Egypt?

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