Salah Delivers as 10-Man Egypt Power Into AFCON Knockouts

Penalty Drama Sends Egypt Through

Mohamed Salah once again proved decisive as Egypt booked their place in the Africa Cup of Nations knockout stage with a gritty 1-0 win over South Africa in Agadir — despite playing the entire second half with ten men.

The Liverpool forward struck from the penalty spot just before half-time, a moment that ultimately separated the sides in a tense Group B clash. Egypt survived late pressure and a controversial penalty appeal to become the first team to qualify for the round of 16 at AFCON 2025.

Salah Steps Up Under Pressure

Egypt started with intent, pushing South Africa back and dictating possession. Salah had the first clear opening after 11 minutes but arrived a fraction too late to connect with Mohamed Hany’s low cross.

The Pharaohs continued to probe, with Omar Marmoush firing wide from a dangerous free kick, while South Africa remained compact and disciplined in defence.

The breakthrough arrived in dramatic fashion. As Salah chased a loose ball inside the area, Khuliso Mudau caught him with a raised arm to the face. After a VAR review, the referee pointed to the spot, and Salah calmly sent Ronwen Williams the wrong way to put Egypt ahead on 45 minutes.

Red Card Changes the Game

Moments later, Egypt’s task became significantly harder. Right-back Mohamed Hany was shown a second yellow card — and then red — for stamping on Teboho Mokoena in first-half stoppage time.

Reduced to ten men, Egypt were forced into survival mode after the break as South Africa pushed forward in search of an equaliser.

Egypt Dig Deep to Hold On

South Africa enjoyed more territory in the second half, but clear chances were limited thanks to a disciplined Egyptian defensive display and the experience of goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy.

The veteran shot-stopper was at his best late on, producing a crucial save to deny Lyle Foster and preserve Egypt’s slender lead. Controversy followed when South Africa appealed for a penalty after Yasser Ibrahim appeared to handle inside the box, but VAR opted not to intervene.

Egypt nearly sealed the contest with a second goal on the counter, only for Williams to deny substitute Emam Ashour.

Pharaohs March On

The final whistle confirmed Egypt’s second straight win and guaranteed them a top-two finish in Group B. With six points from two matches, the seven-time champions are safely through — though questions remain about discipline and control heading into the knockout rounds.

For now, Salah’s penalty and Egypt’s resilience were enough.