Mohamed Salah once again proved his importance to Egypt by scoring a dramatic stoppage-time winner as the Pharaohs came from behind to defeat Zimbabwe 2-1 in their opening match of AFCON 2025. The Liverpool forward’s late intervention spared Egypt from a frustrating draw and ensured a winning start to their latest Africa Cup of Nations campaign in Morocco.
AFCON 2025 represents another major opportunity for Egypt, the tournament’s most successful nation, to extend their record haul of continental titles. It also carries special significance for Salah, who has never lifted the AFCON trophy despite his legendary status in African football.
Despite Egypt’s early dominance, it was Zimbabwe who struck first against the run of play. In the 20th minute, Emmanuel Jalai delivered a cross from the right flank that was expertly controlled by Prince Dube inside the penalty area. With one swift movement, Dube turned and fired a composed left-footed finish past goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy to give the Warriors a shock lead.
The goal stunned Egypt and injected belief into the Zimbabwe side, who arrived at AFCON 2025 determined to upset more fancied opponents. Zimbabwe defended deep and remained disciplined, making it difficult for Egypt to break them down despite enjoying the majority of possession.
Egypt created numerous opportunities in the first half but were repeatedly denied by a combination of poor finishing and excellent goalkeeping from Zimbabwe’s veteran shot-stopper Washington Arubi. Salah was at the heart of most of Egypt’s attacking play, drifting into central areas and delivering dangerous crosses that went unfinished.
Trezeguet came closest when his header was tipped onto the crossbar by Arubi, while Omar Marmoush tested the goalkeeper with a powerful long-range effort. Emam Ashour also wasted a promising chance, summing up Egypt’s lack of cutting edge before halftime.
As AFCON 2025 opening matches often prove tricky, Egypt’s inability to convert chances left them vulnerable heading into the second half.
Marmoush Restores Parity With Stunning Finish
Egypt emerged from the break with renewed urgency and were finally rewarded in the 64th minute. Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush produced a moment of individual brilliance to bring his side level at AFCON 2025.
Collecting the ball on the left wing, Marmoush drove aggressively toward goal, outpaced his defender and unleashed a fierce shot from a tight angle that flew into the roof of the net. The goal lifted the atmosphere inside the Grand Stade d’Agadir and reignited Egypt’s push for victory.
The equaliser reflected Egypt’s sustained pressure and dominance, though Zimbabwe continued to defend bravely and looked capable of holding out for a draw.
Salah’s Late Heroics Seal Victory
As the clock ticked into stoppage time, the momentum seemed to slow and a draw appeared inevitable. However, AFCON 2025 once again showcased Mohamed Salah’s knack for decisive moments.
A loose ball fell kindly to Egypt’s captain inside the penalty area. Showing strength, awareness and composure, Salah held off his marker before poking a low left-footed effort past Arubi and inside the post. The goal sparked jubilant celebrations among Egypt’s players and supporters.
While the result was cruel on Zimbabwe, who produced a courageous display, Egypt will care little as they secured a crucial three points in their AFCON 2025 opener.
Now 33 years old, Salah remains driven by the desire to win AFCON, the one major honour missing from his glittering career. Having lost finals in 2017 and 2022, AFCON 2025 could represent one of his final chances to lift the trophy, particularly with speculation surrounding the latter stages of his club career.
Egypt coach Hossam Hassan praised Salah’s impact and the team’s persistence, admitting his side wasted chances but deserved the victory. He also emphasized that performances must improve if Egypt are to progress deep into AFCON 2025.
What the Result Means for Group B
The win places Egypt in a strong position early in Group B at AFCON 2025. They will next face South Africa in Agadir, a fixture expected to provide a sterner test. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, will travel to Marrakesh to take on Angola, encouraged by their performance despite the defeat.
For Egypt, this hard-fought victory could prove to be a defining moment in their AFCON 2025 journey. If Mohamed Salah continues to deliver at crucial moments, the Pharaohs may yet find themselves celebrating continental glory once again.
FAQs
Q1: Who scored the winning goal for Egypt at AFCON 2025?
Mohamed Salah scored a stoppage-time winner to give Egypt a 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe at AFCON 2025.
Q2: Who scored Egypt’s equaliser in the match?
Omar Marmoush scored the equalising goal in the 64th minute during Egypt’s AFCON 2025 opener.
Q3: Where was the Egypt vs Zimbabwe match played?
The match was played at the Grand Stade d’Agadir in Morocco during AFCON 2025.
Q4: How many AFCON titles has Egypt won?
Egypt have won the Africa Cup of Nations seven times and are aiming for an eighth title at AFCON 2025.
Q5: Has Mohamed Salah ever won AFCON?
No, Mohamed Salah has never won the Africa Cup of Nations, making AFCON 2025 a crucial opportunity for him.
