Egypt secured their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) knockout stages after a dramatic 1-0 victory over South Africa, despite playing much of the match with ten men on Friday.
The Pharaohs became the first team to qualify for the Round of 16 of the tournament after another Group B matchday 2 encounter between Angola and Zimbabwe ended in draw earlier on Friday.
Mohamed Salah’s penalty late in the first half proved to be the decisive moment. However, the Egyptians were almost immediately reduced to ten men when Mohamed Hany received a second yellow card just before the interval, leaving South Africa frustrated at their inability to capitalise on the numerical advantage.
Egypt started brightly, with Salah narrowly missing a Hany cross and Omar Marmoush firing a free-kick just wide. South Africa, in contrast, struggled to create clear-cut chances, with Lyle Foster’s tame effort easily saved by Mohamed El Shenawy.
The game’s turning point arrived in the 45th minute when Salah was fouled in the box, leading to a VAR-awarded penalty. Salah coolly converted with a ‘Panenka’ finish, putting Egypt ahead. Yet, moments later, Hany was dismissed for a foul on Teboho Mokoena, leaving Egypt with a significant challenge for the second half.
Despite dominating possession after the restart, South Africa found El Shenawy in inspired form. The Egyptian goalkeeper made crucial saves from Emam Ashour’s deflected shot and Khuliso Mudau’s powerful effort.
Late drama ensued when South Africa had a penalty appeal for a handball reviewed by VAR, but the referee ultimately decided against awarding a spot-kick.
Egypt will conclude their Group B campaign against Angola in Agadir on Monday, 29th December, while South Africa will face Zimbabwe in Marrakesh in a must win game.
