The Pharaohs of Egypt have become the first team to book their place in the round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after edging South Africa 1-0 in a tense Group B encounter at the Stade d’Agadir on Friday, Bold Sports reports.
Both teams came into the contest on the back of opening-day victories, with South Africa having defeated Angola 2-1 and Egypt claiming a similar 2-1 win over Zimbabwe. But it was a moment of composure from captain Mohamed Salah that ultimately separated the two sides and confirmed Egypt’s progression to the knockout stage.
Egypt were the brighter side for much of the first half, carving out the clearer chances against a disciplined Bafana Bafana defence. Despite their performance, the match appeared to be heading into the break goalless until late drama transformed the contest.
In the 45th minute, Salah was awarded a penalty after being struck in the face by Khuliso Mudau inside the area. Following a VAR review, the penalty was given and the Liverpool forward stepped up to calmly dispatch a cheeky panenka past Ronwen Williams, handing Egypt a 1-0 lead at the interval.
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Moments after the goal, the Pharaohs suffered a setback when Mohamed Hany was shown a second yellow card for a foul on Teboho Mokoena, reducing Egypt to ten men. At half time, head coach Hossam Hassan reacted by withdrawing forward Omar Marmoush and introducing midfielder Emam Ashour to restore some balance.
South Africa emerged with renewed urgency in the second half, using their numerical advantage to push bodies forward in search of an equaliser. They enjoyed sustained spells of pressure, but Egypt remained organised and resilient, soaking up attacks and limiting clear-cut chances.
The Pharaohs also posed a threat on the counter-attack, with their pace troubling the South African backline, although they were unable to find a second goal to put the contest beyond doubt.
Late controversy followed as South Africa appealed for a penalty in stoppage time when Mokoena’s effort appeared to strike the arm of Yasser Ibrahim. After a lengthy VAR check, the referee ruled against awarding a spot kick, much to Egypt’s relief, as they held on to secure all three points.
The victory sees Egypt move to the top of Group B with six points from two matches, becoming the first team at the tournament to confirm qualification for the last 16. South Africa remain on three points and will look to seal their own passage to the knockout phase when they face Zimbabwe, while Egypt round off their group campaign against Angola.
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