Football is king in Africa and with one of the continent's own among the stars going into the Champions League final, Africa is united behind Liverpool against Real Madrid.

Mohamed Salah has set Africa's social media buzzing, and even fans of Real Madrid find themselves torn.

Aminu Mai-unguwa Mohamed is such a staunch supporter of Liverpool's rivals Chelsea that he is known by his friends as Aminu Mai-unguwa Chelsea, yet he had this to say to the BBC about his support for Salah: "I have faith in Salah, his team will be successful in winning the cup.

"I think he is better than both Messi and Ronaldo combined, and if his team were to play Chelsea, I would still support him."

Mo Salah has Africans suddenly confused about their club loyalties, and even fans of Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo seem to be leaning towards the Egyptian.

Shazia Saleem, describes herself as a passionate Newcastle United fan, and yet the Mo Salah fever has her switching from her childhood football icon.

She told the BBC: "I think every now and then you get a footballing great who you respect and admire regardless of the team.

"If they are a great person off the pitch too, then that's when I sign up. Mo Salah is a brilliant footballer and an amazing human. I hope he scores the winner."

A Liverpool fan in Nigeria made his predictions to the BBC, saying: "I'm sure Liverpool is going to carry the cup, and I predict 3-1.

"At the first half I'd say 2-0, and Mo Salah is definitely going to get a goal in, then Firmino, and at the second half, Mane will certainly get a goal in!"

Another die-hard African Real Madrid fan had this to say to the BBC on the match: "Christiano Ronaldo will never go off a field empty-handed. It is at these times that you see him at his best, so I believe Real Madrid will win the cup."

Nevertheless, Mohamed Salah has the support of most of Africa, as he is seen as a beacon of hope, and a shining example to young people across the continent.

The "Egyptian King", as he has been christened by Liverpool fans, is flying high with 44 goals scored in total this season.

Top pundits are comparing Mo Salah to Barcelona star Lionel Messi, who some say is the world's best ever player.

Saturday's final will see Salah in a showdown against fellow contender for the Ballon d'Or award for Europe's best footballer, Ronaldo. (BBC)

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