Egypt produced a late comeback to defeat Zimbabwe 2–1 in the second Group B match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, securing all three points in a hard-fought encounter at the Stade Adrar in Agadir.
The victory sends the seven-time champions to the top of Group B, level on points and goal difference with South Africa, who also opened their campaign with a 2–1 win over Angola.
Despite dominating possession for large periods, Egypt appeared to be heading toward a damaging opening-day setback until their pressure finally told, with Mohamed Salah delivering when it mattered most.
Against the run of play, it was Zimbabwe who struck first.
In the 20th minute, Jordan Jalai surged down the flank before picking out Prince Dube, who spun inside the penalty area and calmly placed his finish beyond goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy to give the Warriors a shock lead.
Egypt responded with increased urgency after the break. They raised the tempo, pushed their full-backs higher, and began to stretch Zimbabwe’s defensive shape.
Their persistence paid off in the 63rd minute when Omar Marmoush, who had grown increasingly influential, raced down the wing and finished emphatically to restore parity.
As the match moved into stoppage time, Egypt continued to press for a winner.
The decisive moment arrived when Salah controlled a high ball inside the box, slipped past his marker, and fired home a clinical finish to spark celebrations among the Egyptian players and supporters.
The win gives Egypt a positive start to their Group B campaign, although improvements will be needed ahead of their next fixture against South Africa in Agadir.
Zimbabwe, despite the defeat, will take encouragement from their performance as they prepare to face Angola in Marrakesh.
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Story by Xavier Mensah | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Erica Odeenyin Odoom
