Mo Salah scores late as Egypt edge Zimbabwe in AFCON opener | OneFootball

Pharaohs edge past Warriors

Photo: Liverpoolfc.com

Egypt came from behind to secure a hard-fought 2-1 win over a stubborn Zimbabwe side in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group B opener on Monday night.

The Warriors stunned the Pharaohs as they drew first blood, courtesy of Young Africans striker Prince Dube in the 20th minute.

Egypt kept searching for an equalizing goal but Washington Arubi kept them at bay with crucial saves until the hour mark.

Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush unleashed a scorcher from a tight angle, which saw the record seven-time African champions level matters in the 64th minute.

It was the Liverpool talisman Mohamed Salah, who turned the tie around as he scored in stoppage time to ensure the North Africans claim maximum points.

As a result, Egypt are level on points with South Africa, who beat Angola 2-1 earlier in the day - and the two sides will lock horns in matchday two on Friday, 26 December.

Meanwhile, both Zimbabwe and Angola will be looking to get off the mark when they also square off on the same day.