Salah Egypt AFCON victory as Mohamed Salah scores late to give Egypt a dramatic 2-1 Group B win over Zimbabwe in Agadir
Egypt secured a dramatic Africa Cup of Nations Group B victory on Monday night in Agadir as Mohamed Salah struck in added time to seal a tense 2-1 win over Zimbabwe.
Also read: AFCON: Foster strike gives South Africa win over Angola
The record seven-time champions appeared headed for frustration before the Egypt captain pounced on a loose ball inside the penalty area and calmly beat Zimbabwe goalkeeper Washington Arubi with a precise finish into the corner.
The Salah Egypt AFCON victory came after an unexpectedly difficult contest for the Pharaohs, who dominated possession but were stunned when Prince Dube put Zimbabwe ahead in the 20th minute.
Zimbabwe’s opener silenced the largely pro-Egypt crowd at the 40,000-capacity stadium after Emmanuel Jalai’s cross found Dube, who turned smartly before firing past Mohamed El Shenawy.
Egypt pressed relentlessly in response, forcing all 11 Zimbabwe players deep into their half, but found Arubi and a resilient defence difficult to break down.
Omar Marmoush finally restored parity in the 63rd minute, darting behind the defence and smashing a low shot home from a tight angle to lift the mounting tension.
As Egypt pushed for a winner, Salah remained influential, though he missed a clear chance late on before redeeming himself in stoppage time with a decisive strike that sparked wild celebrations.
The victory leaves Egypt level on three points with South Africa, who defeated Angola 2-1 earlier in the group, while Zimbabwe were left to rue missed opportunities and heroic defending undone at the death.
The match also marked a personal statement from Salah, who arrived at the tournament amid uncertainty over his club future, but showed composure and leadership when it mattered most.
Also read: AFCON: Foster strike gives South Africa win over Angola
Egypt are chasing a record-extending eighth AFCON title, with Salah determined to finally lift the trophy after finishing runner-up in 2017 and 2022.
