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The Liverpool star scored a hat-trick in Saturday’s first league game and uniquely celebrated his third goal to pay tribute to his compatriot.
Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah paid tribute to Al Ahly midfielder Moamen Zakaria with his celebration after scoring a hat-trick in the Reds’ 4-3 win over Leeds United.
After securing maximum points for Jurgen Klopp’s men in their first Premier League match with his goal from the penalty spot in the 88th minute, the Egyptian international mimicked Zakaria’s celebration by sticking out his tongue and covering his ears with hands.
Zakaria was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) last month, a disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, and will not be able to play soccer again.
The 32-year-old joined Al Ahly from Egyptian Premier League rival Zamalek in 2015 and has not played competitive football since December 2018.
Zakaria is also a Egypt international and played alongside Salah in their 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, where he made three appearances against Ghana and Chad (home and away).
During his active playing career, he won the Egyptian Premier League title three times and is a three-time winner of the Egyptian Cup.
Following his 3-0 defeat of Ismaily SC in an Egyptian Premier League match on Friday, the Al Ahly players paid tribute to Zakaria with celebration and the 32-year-old responded with a thank you tweet to the Red Devils.
“I thanked Al Ahly management and players,” he tweeted.
“I enjoyed one of the most beautiful days of my life. It was one of the sweetest days of my life for almost two years.
“I thank all the fans. Your prayers to me for a speedy recovery. “
I thank the management of the club and the game: * I lived with you the happiest and sweetest day of my life almost two years ago * … and I extend my sincere thanks to my beloved Republic. Urgent * 💜🌹 pic.twitter.com/Ug80c90fd5
– Mo’men Zakaria (@MoamenZakaria) September 12, 2020
Former Liverpool right-back Stephen Darby is also battling ALS and has created a foundation to support people affected by the disease that forced him to retire two years ago.
In July 2019, his former clubs Liverpool and Bradford City held a fundraising match to support the 31-year-old’s cause.
Following Saturday’s heroic display at Anfield, Salah is expected to continue his scoring exploits when Liverpool visit Chelsea for their next Premier League game on 20 September.
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