Mohamed Salah scored a stoppage-time winner as Egypt came from behind to beat Zimbabwe 2-1 in their Africa Cup of Nations opener in Agadir. The record seven-time champions overcame an early shock to start their 2025 campaign with three points at Adrar Stadium on December 22.
Thrilling Comeback in Group B Clash
Egypt entered the match as heavy favorites, but Zimbabwe struck first. Prince Dube put the Warriors ahead in the 20th minute with a sharp finish after a quick counterattack. The goal stunned the Pharaohs, who had controlled possession early on.
The underdogs held firm through the first half, frustrating Egypt’s attacks. Fans in the sparsely filled stadium grew restless as chances went begging. Zimbabwe’s defense, led by a solid backline, looked set to pull off a major upset.
Omar Marmoush changed the game in the 64th minute. The forward equalized with a stunning strike from outside the box, beating the keeper with power and precision. This goal shifted momentum, setting up a tense finish.
Salah sealed the win in the 91st minute. He controlled a header inside the box and fired a half-volley into the net. The late drama sent Egypt’s supporters into wild celebrations.
Salah Shines Despite Club Struggles
Salah’s performance mixed brilliance with rust. Fresh off limited play at Liverpool due to form issues, he started strong but faded midway. Still, his winner showed why he remains Egypt’s star.
The 33-year-old forward created six chances and completed two dribbles. He won five of seven duels and made five recoveries. His stats highlight his all-around impact.
- Created three big scoring opportunities
- Completed 34 passes with 74% accuracy
- Scored from four shots on goal
Teammates praised his leadership. Coach Hossam Hassan noted Salah’s drive to end his AFCON drought after finals losses in 2017 and 2022.
Zimbabwe’s Brave Effort Falls Short
Zimbabwe, known as the Warriors, have never advanced past the group stage in AFCON. They nearly changed that with a spirited display against the favorites.
Dube’s early goal came from smart play, exploiting Egypt’s high line. The team defended well, limiting Salah’s space until the end.
Despite the loss, coach Norman Mapeza highlighted positives. “We showed heart,” he said. Zimbabwe now faces tough matches against other group rivals.
Key Zimbabwe stats include:
| Player | Goals | Assists | Key Passes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prince Dube | 1 | 0 | 2 |
| Team Total | 1 | 1 | 8 |
Their effort earned respect across Africa, proving smaller nations can challenge giants.
Broader Context in AFCON 2025
Hosted in Morocco, this tournament features stars like Senegal’s Sadio Mane and defending champions Ivory Coast. Egypt aims for an eighth title, their first since 2010.
Salah’s goal boosts their chances in Group B. Recent form shows Egypt unbeaten in qualifiers, scoring freely. However, defensive lapses, as seen early against Zimbabwe, remain a concern.
The win comes amid Salah’s club uncertainty. With Liverpool talks stalled, Saudi clubs eye a move. Yet, his focus here is clear: winning AFCON to cap his legacy.
What This Means for Fans and Future Games
This result sets up exciting group stage battles. Egypt next plays another rival, needing consistency to advance. Zimbabwe must regroup quickly.
For fans, Salah’s heroics remind why he’s a global icon. His journey from finals heartbreak to potential glory adds emotional weight.
Share your thoughts on Salah’s winner or Egypt’s chances in the comments below. Did this match change your AFCON predictions? Let us know and spread the word!
