Mohamed Salah’s first-half penalty proved decisive as Egypt became the first team to qualify for the knockout stage of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, edging South Africa 1–0 in a tense Group B clash on Friday in Agadir.
In a match billed as one of the group’s most balanced encounters, the Pharaohs showed composure and resilience, even after being reduced to ten men just before the break. Egypt found the breakthrough in the 45th minute when VAR confirmed a penalty, and captain Salah calmly chipped his effort past Ronwen Williams to crown a strong first-half display.
Moments later, the game turned again as Mohamed Hany was sent off for a second yellow card, forcing Egypt to play the entire second half with a numerical disadvantage. Head coach Hossam Hassan reacted quickly, reorganising his side to focus on defensive solidity and compactness.
South Africa pushed forward in search of an equaliser, enjoying long spells of possession and applying sustained pressure. However, they struggled to turn control into clear-cut chances, with goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy producing a commanding performance and Egypt’s defence standing firm under pressure.
Despite being a man down, Egypt remained dangerous on the counter, with Salah’s movement and pace offering an outlet and helping to disrupt South Africa’s rhythm. Late drama followed deep into stoppage time when Bafana Bafana appealed for a penalty after a suspected handball, but following a lengthy VAR review, the referee waved play on, sparing Egypt late heartbreak.
The final whistle sealed a hard-earned victory built on discipline rather than dominance. Egypt moved to six points at the top of Group B, securing early qualification for the knockout rounds and ending a long wait for a competitive win over South Africa. South Africa remain well placed to advance but were left to reflect on missed opportunities on a night where fine margins once again defined AFCON football.
