Egypt secured their passage to the knockout phase of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over a determined Angola side in a thrilling Group D encounter. The Pharaohs, led by captain Mohamed Salah, had to come from behind to claim all three points in a match filled with tension and pivotal moments.
Salah Inspires Egyptian Comeback
The match did not start according to plan for the tournament favourites. Angola shocked the Egyptian defence to take a surprise lead in the 23rd minute, capitalising on a defensive lapse. The goal ignited the Palancas Negras and forced Egypt to dig deep. The response was led by their talisman, Mohamed Salah. The Liverpool forward was instrumental in turning the tide, providing the creative spark and relentless drive that his team desperately needed.
Egypt's pressure told before halftime. A well-worked team move culminated in an equaliser, calming nerves and shifting the momentum firmly in their favour. The teams went into the break level, but with Egypt now in the ascendancy.
Second-Half Pressure Yields Winner
The second period saw Egypt continue to dominate possession and create the clearer chances. Angola defended resolutely but were eventually breached for a second time. The decisive winning goal arrived in the 68th minute, sending the Egyptian supporters into raptures. Despite late Angolan efforts to find an equaliser, including a few nervous moments for Egypt's back line, the Pharaohs held on to secure a vital victory.
This result means Egypt have successfully navigated their way out of the group stages, building momentum at a crucial time in the tournament. For Angola, the defeat is a significant setback, leaving their hopes of progression hanging by a thread as they face a must-win final group match.
What This Result Means for AFCON 2025
Egypt's triumph solidifies their status as one of the leading contenders for the AFCON 2025 title. Qualifying from the group with a game to spare allows manager Rui Vitória the luxury of potentially rotating his squad for the final group match, keeping key players fresh for the knockout rounds. The performance, particularly the character shown in coming from behind, will boost confidence within the camp.
For Angola, the path is now extremely difficult. They must win their last group game and hope other results go their way to have any chance of advancing as one of the best third-placed teams. Their spirited performance against Egypt, however, proves they are capable of causing problems for any opponent.
The focus now shifts to the final round of group matches, where the full knockout picture will become clear. Egypt will look to build on this platform as they chase a record-extending eighth Africa Cup of Nations crown.
