Mohamed Salah has emphatically shifted focus from his club future to international duty, inspiring Egypt to an early qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations knockout phase. The Liverpool forward was the match-winner as the Pharaohs edged past South Africa 1-0 in Agadir.
Salah Steps Up From the Spot
In a tense Group B encounter, the decisive moment arrived from the penalty spot. Salah won and converted the penalty himself after being struck in the face by South African defender Khuliso Mudau during a challenge in the box. Showing composure, the 33-year-old captain sent his shot straight down the middle for his second goal of the tournament.
This strike marked a significant personal milestone, being Salah's 65th goal for his country. It followed his dramatic last-gasp winner in Egypt's opening 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe, proving his invaluable role in the national side's campaign.
Egypt Hold Firm With Ten Men
The path to victory was far from straightforward for the record seven-time champions. They were reduced to ten men late in the first half when right-back Mohamed Hany was shown a straight red card for a nasty stamp.
South Africa dominated possession and pressure for much of the second period, launching wave after wave of attacks on the Egyptian goal. Their efforts were almost rewarded with a penalty of their own after a lengthy VAR review for a potential handball, but the appeal was ultimately denied by referee Pacifique Ndabihawenimana.
Despite their numerical advantage and territorial dominance, South Africa lacked the cutting edge in the final third to punish a resilient Egyptian defence, who held on for a crucial three points.
Group B Standings and Implications
The result means Egypt have now secured maximum six points from their opening two matches, winning the group with one round of fixtures still to play. They are the first team to officially book their place in the competition's last 16.
South Africa remain on three points, while the group's other fixture saw Zimbabwe and Angola play out a 1-1 draw. Both those sides have a single point, setting up a tense final matchday to determine who joins Egypt in the knockout rounds.
For Mohamed Salah, his stellar performances have temporarily silenced questions about his club future, reminding the football world of his enduring quality and leadership on the international stage.
