AFCON 2025: Mohamed Salah’s last-gasp strike sends Egypt past Zimbabwe
Mohamed Salah struck in stoppage time to rescue Egypt, firing the Pharaohs to a dramatic 2–1 victory over a stubborn Zimbabwe side in their Africa Cup of Nations 2025 opener.
In a match that swung repeatedly in momentum, Egypt were forced to dig deep after falling behind against the run of play. Goals from Omar Marmoush and a late Salah finish eventually settled the contest, though Zimbabwe left the pitch feeling they deserved far more.
Early Pressure, Missed Chances
All eyes were on Egypt captain Salah heading into the game, and the Liverpool forward wasted no time in asserting his influence. Inside the opening minutes, he delivered a teasing cross that Mahmoud Trezeguet headed on target, only for Zimbabwe goalkeeper Washington Arubi to produce an excellent save.
Moments later, Emam Ashour went close from inside the box, but Egypt’s early dominance failed to produce a breakthrough.
Zimbabwe shock the Pharaohs
Against the flow of play, Zimbabwe struck first in the 20th minute. Prince Dube showed composure inside the penalty area, turning smartly before guiding a low finish past Mohamed El Shenawy to stun the Egyptian support.
The goal rattled Egypt, and they almost conceded again when a goalkeeping error nearly allowed Washington Navaya to score into an empty net.
Zimbabwe, organised and fearless, defended their lead with discipline, while Egypt struggled to convert possession into clear chances before halftime.
Marmoush sparks the comeback
Egypt emerged with renewed urgency after the break, and their equaliser arrived shortly after the hour mark. A lapse in concentration from right-back Godknows Murwira allowed Omar Marmoush to run in behind the defence, and the Manchester City forward made no mistake, smashing his effort into the roof of the net.
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The goal shifted the momentum entirely. Marmoush, now operating centrally, dictated Egypt’s attacking rhythm and repeatedly tested Zimbabwe’s defensive resolve.
Despite sustained pressure, Egypt squandered opportunities to take the lead, most notably when Zizo headed over from close range.
Salah delivers at the death
Just as it appeared Egypt might be forced to settle for a draw, Salah delivered the decisive moment in the 91st minute. Following a turnover in midfield initiated by Marmoush, the ball fell to the captain inside the box.
Salah showed trademark composure, swivelling sharply before firing a left-footed shot into the net to spark wild celebrations on the Egypt bench and heartbreak for Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe deserve credit
While Salah’s late goal grabbed the headlines, Zimbabwe were left feeling aggrieved. They battled relentlessly from first whistle to last and felt hard done by with a series of refereeing decisions, including a possible penalty shout and calls for a second yellow card for Marwan Attia.
Several Zimbabwe players stood out despite the result, notably goalkeeper Washington Arubi, defenders Gerald Takwara and Munashe Garan’anga, midfield anchor Marvelous Nakamba, and attackers Daniel Msendami and Macauley Bonne.
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Group B Outlook
The victory places Egypt level on points with South Africa, who also won on matchday one, at the top of Group B. For Egypt, the result preserves a fixture dominance that now stretches beyond three decades.
For Zimbabwe, the performance offered encouragement despite the disappointment, proving they are capable of competing against one of Africa’s most decorated football nations.
Egypt will now turn their attention to their next group match, knowing that improvement will be needed if they are to challenge for a record-extending eighth AFCON title.
SportsLigue