AFCON: Salah penalty sends Egypt through as ten-man pharaohs edge past South Africa

Mohamed Salah’s first-half penalty proved decisive as Egypt secured a narrow victory over South Africa, sealing their place in the knockout rounds of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with one group match remaining despite playing the entire second half with 10 men, Sport360NG reports.

The seven-time champions took the lead just before the interval when Salah converted from the spot after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review ruled in Egypt’s favour following contact involving Khuliso Mudau. The Liverpool forward executed a composed Panenka to register his second goal of the tournament.

Moments later, Egypt were reduced to 10 players as right-back Mohamed Hany was shown a second yellow card in stoppage time at the end of the first half for a clumsy challenge on Teboho Mokoena, leaving the Pharaohs to defend their advantage for the remainder of the contest.

South Africa introduced Sipho Mbule at the break in an attempt to increase their attacking threat, but struggled to break down a disciplined Egyptian defence marshalled by goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy. Egypt continued to pose a danger on the counter, helping to relieve sustained pressure during the second period.

El Shenawy played a key role late on, producing a sharp save to deny Aubrey Modiba from close range after Lyle Foster’s clever backheel had opened up space inside the box. The goalkeeper also dealt comfortably with a late header from Siyabonga Ngezana as South Africa pushed for an equaliser.

Controversy returned in the closing minutes when South Africa appealed for a handball inside the penalty area following a defensive block by Yasser Ibrahim. Referee Pacifique Ndabihawenimana reviewed the incident on the pitchside monitor but ruled that Ibrahim’s arm was in a natural position, allowing play to continue.

Earlier on Thursday, Angola’s draw with Zimbabwe confirmed Egypt’s qualification for the last 16 from Group B, while South Africa remain two points clear of the bottom two teams.

The group concludes on Monday, with South Africa facing Zimbabwe in Marrakesh and Egypt meeting Angola in Agadir. Egypt are now well placed to finish top of the group, while Hugo Broos’ side must avoid defeat to secure their own progression.