In a pulsating FA Cup final at Wembley on May 25, 2025, Liverpool emerged victorious over Chelsea in a dramatic 2-1 win, securing their ninth FA Cup title and igniting scenes of jubilation among players and fans alike. While the match itself was a showcase of tactical brilliance and resilience, it was the post-match celebrations that captured the hearts of supporters worldwide. At the center of the festivities were Thiago Alcantara and Mohamed Salah, whose playful camaraderie—highlighted by Thiago donning a Salah mask—became the defining image of Liverpool’s triumph. The moment, brimming with joy and camaraderie, underscored the unity within Arne Slot’s squad as they celebrated a hard-fought victory.

The final against Chelsea was a tense affair, with both sides trading blows in a match that showcased the Premier League’s finest talents. Liverpool struck first through Florian Wirtz, whose curling effort in the 22nd minute set the tone. Chelsea equalized just before halftime via Cole Palmer’s deft finish, but it was Hugo Ekitike’s towering header in the 68th minute that ultimately sealed the win for the Reds. Despite Chelsea’s late pressure, Liverpool’s defense, marshaled by Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate, held firm, with Alisson Becker making a crucial save to deny Nicolas Jackson in stoppage time. The final whistle sparked wild celebrations, but it was Thiago and Salah’s antics that stole the spotlight.

As the Liverpool squad gathered on the Wembley pitch, Thiago, the 34-year-old Spanish midfielder, emerged from the tunnel wearing a Mohamed Salah mask, a playful nod to his teammate’s iconic status. The sight of Thiago, a fan favorite known for his silky passing and injury-plagued tenure, sporting the mask sent the Liverpool faithful into hysterics. Salah, who had been a constant threat during the match with two key chances created, burst into laughter before embracing Thiago in a heartfelt hug. The pair danced across the pitch, with Thiago lifting the mask to reveal his beaming smile, while Salah hoisted the FA Cup trophy aloft, soaking in the adulation of the red half of Wembley.

Social media erupted with fans celebrating the duo’s bond. “Thiago in a Salah mask is the content we didn’t know we needed!” one supporter posted on X, accompanied by a clip of the moment that quickly amassed thousands of likes. Another wrote, “Mo and Thiago together like this? That’s what Liverpool is all about—class and heart.” The image of Thiago’s masked tribute resonated deeply, symbolizing not only the team’s unity but also the enduring legacy of Salah, whose 211 Premier League goals place him among the competition’s all-time greats. For Thiago, whose contract is set to expire in 2026, the moment was a poignant reminder of his impact despite limited game time this season due to recurring injuries.

The celebration was particularly meaningful given the context of Liverpool’s season. After a disappointing Community Shield loss to Crystal Palace earlier in August, where Salah faced criticism for a penalty miss, the FA Cup final offered redemption. Salah’s performance against Chelsea was a return to form, with his relentless pressing and interplay with Wirtz and Ekitike creating havoc for Chelsea’s backline. Thiago, introduced as a late substitute to shore up the midfield, brought composure in the final minutes, completing 15 of 16 passes in his 12-minute cameo. Their contributions, though different in scope, highlighted the blend of youth and experience that Slot has cultivated since taking over from Jurgen Klopp.

The Thiago-Salah moment also carried emotional weight for fans aware of the duo’s shared journey. Both players, signed in 2020, have been instrumental in Liverpool’s recent successes, including the 2022 FA Cup and League Cup double. Thiago’s technical brilliance and Salah’s goal-scoring prowess have made them cornerstones of the club’s identity, even as injuries and age have sparked debates about their futures. Thiago’s mask-wearing gesture was seen as a tribute to Salah’s enduring influence, with some fans speculating it was a nod to their shared understanding of the pressures at Anfield. “Thiago knows Mo carries this team,” one fan tweeted. “That mask says it all—respect.”

For Arne Slot, the FA Cup triumph was a statement of intent. His summer signings—Wirtz, Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez—have injected dynamism into the squad, but the contributions of veterans like Salah and Thiago remain vital. Slot praised the team’s spirit post-match, saying, “This group showed heart today, from the youngsters to the leaders like Mo and Thiago. That celebration? It’s what makes this club special.” The victory also silenced doubters who questioned Liverpool’s resilience after their Community Shield defeat, with the Reds now eyeing a strong Premier League campaign.

As the celebrations continued, Thiago and Salah joined their teammates in a lap of honor, with the Salah mask making a reappearance as fans chanted both players’ names. The moment encapsulated the joy of a club rediscovering its winning touch under new management. For Liverpool supporters, the image of Thiago in a Salah mask will endure as a symbol of unity, resilience, and the magic of Anfield’s spirit. As the Reds lift the FA Cup, they do so with a squad that blends new stars with beloved icons, all united in pursuit of glory.