Cape Verde 2-2 Egypt: Blue Sharks snatch late draw to win Group B

Egypt has successfully qualified from the group stages of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the fourth consecutive time, even though they conceded a last-minute equalizer against Cape Verde in a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium.

Egypt required a victory in order to secure their spot in the knockout stages of the AFCON through second place. However, they faced a challenge as their star player, Mohamed Salah, was injured and unable to play. Additionally, they were up against a confident Cape Verde team that had a perfect record in the tournament so far.

After failing to win their first two group games at AFCON for the first time since 1992, Egypt knew they needed a strong start to calm any nerves. They came close to achieving just that when Mohamed connected with Zizo's cross and headed the ball over the bar from close range.

The Blue Sharks, on the other hand, started the game at a slow pace, resembling a team that had already secured the top spot in Group B.

They had their goalkeeper, Vozinha, to thank for not falling behind 20 minutes into the match when he denied Omar Marmoush's long-range shot. Vozinha also stopped Mohamed's rebound, but Cape Verde managed to score a goal just before halftime.

Benchimol found space in the area and fired the ball into the bottom corner, giving Cape Verde the lead.

During halftime, Egypt made an inspired substitution that changed the course of the game. Trézéguet, who had just been brought on, was set up for a goal by Ahmed Hegazi's pass and successfully equalized the score.

Egypt regained momentum and Trézéguet almost gave them the lead with a looping shot that was tipped over the bar by Vozinha.

Just as Egyptian fans were losing hope, Mohamed produced a moment of brilliance in stoppage time. He controlled Trézéguet's through ball and skillfully chipped it over the onrushing Vozinha, securing a 2-1 victory for Egypt.

However, the goal had to undergo a nervous VAR check before it was confirmed. However, the drama continued when Bryan Teixeira capitalized on a mistake by Mohamed El Shenawy, equalizing the game in the ninth minute of stoppage time.

The Egyptian fans were relieved to see this late equalizer, as it secured the Pharaohs' qualification in second place. This was made possible after Ghana drew with Mozambique 2-2 in the final Group B match of the night.