Egypt took a major step toward progressing in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations as Mohamed Salah struck from the penalty spot to beat South Africa 1–0 in Agadir.
The Liverpool forward’s goal proved decisive in a tightly contested Group B clash at the Grande Stade.
The match began with both sides feeling each other out. Egypt dominated possession early but struggled to unlock South Africa’s shape.
The hosts fashioned a few half chances through open play, with Omar Marmoush forcing a bright early spell that looked to set the tone.
Then midway through the first half, a moment of controversy opened the scoring. A challenge inside the box saw South Africa’s defender penalised after a VAR review.
Salah stepped up confidently and sent the goalkeeper the wrong way, calmly converting the penalty to put Egypt ahead just before half-time.
The goal sparked celebrations, but the battle was far from over. Egypt soon went down to ten men when Mohamed Hany received a second yellow card shortly after the penalty, adding drama to an already tense encounter.
South Africa responded with intensity after the break. They probed for an equaliser, forcing Egypt to defend deep as the Bafana Bafana pushed numbers forward.
Despite their pressure and clever movement in the final third, they could not find the breakthrough.
As the clock ticked down, Egypt showed composure to hold onto their slim advantage. Their back line stood firm, and the midfield worked hard to disrupt South Africa’s rhythm.
Even with late set-piece opportunities and crosses into the box, the visitors could not force a goal.
When the final whistle blew, the Pharaohs had secured all three points. Salah’s penalty goal proved enough to keep Egypt atop Group B alongside wins over Zimbabwe earlier in the tournament.
The result sets up a crucial finale in the group stage as Egypt continue their hunt for a record-extending eighth AFCON title.
South Africa, despite the narrow loss, remain competitive in a tight group that still has several twists ahead.
Egypt now look ahead to their final group match with momentum on their side as Salah continues to lead the attack for the seven-time champions.
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