Salah strikes late as Egypt rally past Zimbabwe in AFCON 2025 opener

Mohamed Salah delivered a dramatic stoppage-time winner as Egypt came from behind to defeat Zimbabwe 2–1 in their opening Group B match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, Sport360NG reports.

The Liverpool star, still in pursuit of his first AFCON title, rescued the seven-time champions after an unexpectedly difficult contest in Agadir that threatened to derail their campaign at the first hurdle.

Despite dominating possession and chances for long spells, Egypt were stunned in the 20th minute when Zimbabwe took the lead against the run of play. Prince Dube showed sharp control and composure inside the penalty area to meet a cross from the right, spinning neatly before side-footing past Mohamed El Shenawy.

Egypt responded with sustained pressure, but a combination of wasteful finishing and an inspired display from veteran Zimbabwe goalkeeper Washington Arubi kept the Pharaohs at bay. The 40-year-old pulled off a series of saves, most notably tipping Trezeguet’s header onto the crossbar, while also denying Omar Marmoush from long range.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 64th minute when Marmoush drew Egypt level. The Manchester City forward cut in from the left and fired a powerful strike beyond Arubi from a tight angle, restoring parity and shifting the momentum decisively in Egypt’s favour.

Zimbabwe continued to defend bravely, with lone striker Macauley Bonne largely isolated as wave after wave of Egyptian attacks followed. As the match appeared to be drifting towards a draw, Salah produced the decisive moment.

Deep into stoppage time, the 33-year-old reacted quickest to a loose ball inside the box, muscling his way past his marker before poking a composed finish into the bottom corner to secure all three points.

The late goal was a harsh blow for Zimbabwe, whose disciplined performance had brought them within touching distance of a memorable result. However, Egypt’s quality and experience ultimately told, with Salah once again proving decisive on the continental stage.

Egypt will look to sharpen their finishing when they return to Agadir to face South Africa on Friday, while Zimbabwe head to Marrakesh for their next group fixture against Angola.