Egypt Advances with Salah’s Penalty in Narrow Victory Over South Africa

In an intense match on Friday, Mohamed Salah led a 10-man Egypt to a hard-fought 1-0 victory against South Africa in Agadir, securing their spot in the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The Liverpool star scored from the penalty spot just before halftime, ensuring Egypt’s advance to the next round.

Match Highlights

Egypt struck first when Salah converted a penalty in the closing moments of the first half. The decision came after South Africa’s Khuliso Mudau accidentally struck Salah in the eye, prompting the referee to consult VAR before awarding the penalty. Despite the pressure, Salah coolly slotted the ball home as South Africa’s goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams, dove the wrong way.

The match was not without drama; Egypt’s right back, Mohamed Hany, was sent off shortly after the penalty for a second yellow card following a stamp on a South African player. This left Egypt to navigate the second half with just ten players, ramping up the tension in their quest to maintain the lead.

Egypt managed to defend their slender advantage, with goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy coming up with several crucial saves, including a brilliant stop against a low drive from South Africa’s Lyle Foster. As the second half progressed, South Africa ramped up their attacks but was unable to find an equalizer.

Group Standings and Future Matches

With this win, Egypt, the record seven-time champions of the tournament, secured six points and guaranteed themselves a top-two finish in Group B, ensuring a spot in the round of 16. South Africa remains with three points, while Angola and Zimbabwe, who played to a 1-1 draw earlier in the day, are still in the mix with one point each.

In that earlier match, Angola scored first through Gelson Dala, but veteran Knowledge Musona equalized just before halftime for Zimbabwe, making the race for the knockout stage even tighter. As both teams vie for a spot in the next round, they will need to improve their performances in the coming matches.

Looking Ahead

Egypt’s next challenge will be essential for maintaining their momentum, while South Africa must regroup and strategize after falling short. The tournament continues to promise excitement as teams battle for survival in the group stage.