Mohamed Salah’s penalty was enough to give 10-man Egypt a hard-fought 1-0 win over South Africa in Agadir, securing the Pharaohs’ progression from Group B of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a game to spare. The victory ended Bafana Bafana’s 12-game unbeaten run (W6, D6).
The deadlock was broken just before half-time when South African defender Khuliso Mudau fouled in the box, allowing captain Salah to calmly convert the spot-kick by firing down the centre. However, Egypt’s celebrations were dampened as Mohamed Hany received a second yellow card in added time, leaving the Pharaohs to play the second half with 10 men.
South Africa dominated possession after the break but struggled to create clear-cut chances. Most of their efforts came from distance, failing to trouble goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy, who remained resolute in goal. The Bafana Bafana’s best opportunity came 10 minutes before full-time, when Aubrey Modiba could not finish a chance set up by Lyle Foster. Egypt’s defence, combined with El Shenawy’s crucial saves, kept the hosts ahead.
Late drama included a potential penalty for South Africa after 90 minutes, but referee Pacifique Ndabihawenimana reviewed the handball on the pitchside monitor and decided against awarding it.
Earlier in Group B, Angola drew with Zimbabwe, ensuring that Egypt are mathematically guaranteed a place in the last 16, sitting two points clear of the other teams in the group. Despite playing much of the game a man down, Salah’s leadership and clinical penalty secured Egypt’s advancement.
