Egypt became the first team to secure qualification for the round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a hard-fought 1–0 victory over South Africa in a tense Group B clash at the Stade d’Agadir on Friday.

Both sides arrived full of confidence following opening-day wins, but it was the composure and experience of Egyptian captain Mohamed Salah that ultimately proved decisive. His first-half penalty separated the teams and ensured the Pharaohs progressed with a game to spare.

Egypt started on the front foot, enjoying the better of the early exchanges and creating the clearer chances against a disciplined Bafana Bafana defence. Despite their control, South Africa held firm for long spells, and the match looked set to reach half-time without a breakthrough.

The deadlock was broken in the 45th minute when Salah was struck in the face by Khuliso Mudau inside the area. After a VAR review, the referee pointed to the spot, and Salah calmly executed a cheeky panenka to beat Ronwen Williams and give Egypt the lead at the interval.

Moments later, the contest swung again as Egypt were reduced to ten men. Right-back Mohamed Hany received a second yellow card for a challenge on Teboho Mokoena, forcing head coach Hossam Hassan into an immediate rethink. At the break, he sacrificed forward Omar Marmoush for midfielder Emam Ashour to add stability.

South Africa emerged with greater urgency in the second half, using their numerical advantage to press high and commit men forward. They enjoyed sustained spells of possession, but Egypt remained compact and disciplined, restricting clear chances and defending with resilience.

The Pharaohs continued to threaten on the counter-attack, with their pace causing problems, although they were unable to find a second goal to settle nerves. Drama arrived late on when South Africa appealed for a penalty after Mokoena’s effort appeared to strike Yasser Ibrahim’s arm. Following a lengthy VAR check, the referee waved play on, to Egypt’s relief.

The win lifts Egypt to six points from two matches and guarantees their place in the knockout stage, with top spot in Group B firmly in their grasp. South Africa stay on three points and will look to secure qualification against Zimbabwe, while Egypt complete their group campaign against Angola.