Agadir & Rabat The second matchday of the AFCON 2025 group stage delivered contrasting fortunes for North Africa’s powerhouses on Thursday night, as Egypt sealed qualification while hosts Morocco suffered their first setback in 19 matches.
EGYPT 1-0 SOUTH AFRICA | Grand Stade d’Agadir
Salah Strikes Again as Pharaohs Advance
Egypt became the first nation to secure their place in the Round of 16 following a hard fought victory over South Africa in Agadir. The result means the seven-time champions advance with six points and a game to spare.
Match Summary:
The Pharaohs controlled the opening period, with Mohamed Salah converting from the spot on the stroke of halftime after VAR detected a handball inside the area. The Liverpool star has now scored in consecutive matches, cementing his role as Egypt’s talisman in this campaign.
The encounter took a dramatic turn early in the second half when defender Mohamed Hany received his marching orders for a dangerous challenge, leaving Egypt to defend their slender advantage with ten men for over 40 minutes.
Defensive Masterclass:
Despite Bafana Bafana dominating possession (63%), Egypt’s rearguard marshaled brilliantly by goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy held firm under relentless pressure. The Al Ahly shot stopper produced several crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet.
Manager’s Reaction:
Egypt boss spoke post-match: “This team knows how to suffer together. We showed character, discipline, and the mentality of champions.”
What’s Next:
With qualification secured, Egypt can afford to rotate their squad for Monday’s group finale against Angola, potentially resting key players ahead of the knockout rounds.
MOROCCO 1-1 MALI | Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat
Atlas Lions Held as Record Run Comes to an End
Morocco’s remarkable 19-match winning streak came to a halt as Mali earned a hard-fought draw in the capital, leaving the hosts’ qualification hopes hanging in the balance ahead of their final group match.
Match Report:
The Atlas Lions appeared destined for victory when Brahim Diaz confidently dispatched a penalty deep into first-half stoppage time (45+5′), sending the 45,000-strong home crowd into raptures.
However, Mali responded with determination after the interval. Following a lengthy VAR consultation, referee awarded the Eagles a penalty of their own, which Lassine Sinayoko converted emphatically in the 64th minute to restore parity.
Late Drama:
Morocco pressed for a winner in the closing stages, with striker Youssef En-Nesyri going close on multiple occasions. But Mali’s defensive organization particularly from goalkeeper Djigui Diarra frustrated the hosts’ attacking efforts.
Tactical Observations:
Coach Walid Regragui’s side struggled to maintain their defensive shape after conceding, allowing Mali to grow in confidence and threaten on the counter. The Atlas Lions managed 18 shots but lacked the clinical edge required to break down their resilient opponents.
Manager’s Assessment:
Regragui didn’t hide his disappointment: “When you take the lead at home, you must see the game out. We created enough chances to win comfortably but lacked composure in the final third.”
Qualification Scenario:
Morocco must avoid defeat against Zambia on Monday to guarantee top spot in Group A. Anything less could see them drop to second place and face a potentially difficult Round of 16 tie.
GROUP STANDINGS (After Matchday 2)
Group A
| Pos | Team | P | W | D | L | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Morocco | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | +2 | 4 |
| 2 | Mali | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
Group B
| Pos | Team | P | W | D | L | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Egypt ✅ | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | +2 | 6 |
| 2 | South Africa | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 3 |
TACTICAL ANALYSIS
Egypt’s Defensive Discipline:
The Pharaohs demonstrated why tournament football often rewards pragmatism over spectacle. After Hany’s dismissal, they dropped into a compact 4-4-1 shape, denying South Africa space in dangerous areas and relying on El Shenawy’s shot-stopping ability.
Morocco’s Missed Opportunity:
The hosts dominated territorial possession but appeared vulnerable on the transition. Regragui’s decision to push full-backs high left gaps that Mali exploited effectively. The inability to convert chances despite 18 attempts—will concern Moroccan supporters ahead of Monday’s crucial encounter.
NEXT FIXTURES (Matchday 3)
Monday, December 30:
- Morocco vs Zambia – 21:00 (Rabat)
- Egypt vs Angola – 17:00 (Agadir)
Morocco must deliver under pressure. Egypt can experiment with freedom.
