Egypt booked their place in the AFCON 2025 round of 16 with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over South Africa in the second round of Group B matches on Friday, December 26.
The Pharaohs maintained their perfect start to the tournament, becoming the first team to secure qualification for the knockout stage.
The game’s decisive moment came just before half-time. Mohamed Salah won a penalty following a clash with defender Khuliso Mudau.
After consulting VAR, the referee pointed to the spot, and Salah calmly converted in the 45th minute past goalkeeper Ronwen Williams to give Egypt the lead.
Egypt’s task became significantly harder in stoppage time of the first half when right-back Mohamed Hany received a second yellow card, forcing the Pharaohs to play the entire second half with 10 men.
Coach Hossam Hassan reshuffled his side at the break, bringing on Emam Ashour for Omar Marmoush.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Egypt remained dangerous on the counter, with Ashour going close in the 60th minute before being denied.
South Africa pushed for an equaliser late and appealed for a stoppage-time penalty, but after VAR review, the referee ruled against them.
Goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy and Egypt’s defence held firm under intense pressure, preserving the clean sheet until the final whistle.
With the win, Egypt moves to six points and tops Group B, while South Africa remain on three points in second place.
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Story by Xavier Mensah | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Erica Odeenyin Odoom
