Late Comeback Seals Egypt Victory Over Zimbabwe in AFCON Opener
Salah and Marmoush Lead Egypt to Dramatic Win Over Zimbabwe
Egypt national football team claimed a late 2–1 victory over Zimbabwe national football team in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations group stage.
The match was played Monday evening at Agadir Stadium in Morocco as part of Group B, with Egypt starting their tournament campaign in dramatic fashion.
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Zimbabwe Take Surprise Lead Despite Egypt Pressure
Egypt controlled the early stages and created multiple chances, but struggled to convert. Emam Ashour missed a close-range opportunity early on, followed by another wasted chance from Mahmoud Hassan “Trezeguet” after a precise cross from Mohamed Salah.
Against the run of play, Zimbabwe opened the scoring in the 20th minute when Prince Dube beat his marker and fired a composed shot into the net, catching Egypt off guard.
Marmoush Ignites the Comeback in Second Half
Egypt returned from the break with renewed intensity and sustained pressure. Their persistence was rewarded in the 63rd minute when Omar Marmoush produced a moment of brilliance, dribbling past multiple defenders on the left before unleashing a powerful finish to level the score.
By the 70th minute, Egypt had dominated possession with nearly 80 percent of the ball, pinning Zimbabwe deep in their own half.
Salah Delivers the Winner in Stoppage Time
Just as the match appeared headed for a draw, captain Mohamed Salah stepped up in stoppage time. In the 90+1 minute, Salah struck a decisive shot into the net, completing the comeback and securing all three points for Egypt.
The late goal highlighted Egypt’s persistence and attacking quality in a tightly contested opener.
Group Standings and Next Fixtures
With the win, Egypt move into second place in Group B with three points, level with South Africa, who also won their opening match against Angola. The group also includes Zimbabwe and Angola.
Egypt will look to build momentum in their upcoming fixtures as they aim to progress deep into the tournament.
Match Summary
- Final Score: Egypt 2–1 Zimbabwe
- Goals:
- Prince Dube (Zimbabwe, 20’)
- Omar Marmoush (Egypt, 63’)
- Mohamed Salah (Egypt, 90+1’)
- Competition: Africa Cup of Nations 2025
- Venue: Agadir Stadium, Morocco