The narrative of AFCON 2025 Day Two was written in the dying seconds.
On a pulse-pounding Tuesday across Morocco, tournament favorites narrowly escaped disaster against spirited underdogs. Both Mohamed Salah and Patson Daka produced stoppage-time magic to alter the complexion of Groups A and B.
Consequently, the standings remain tight as the continent’s best teams realized there are no easy games in this tournament.
Salah Rescues Egypt from Shock Defeat
In Agadir, the Pharaohs flirted with a historic upset.
Facing a disciplined Zimbabwe side, Egypt fell behind early to a goal from Prince Dube. To make matters worse, Zimbabwean goalkeeper Washington Arubi produced a wall-like performance, frustrating the seven-time champions for 90 minutes.
However, Omar Marmoush eventually found an equalizer. Then, deep into injury time, the moment arrived.
Mohamed Salah, starting his first match in nearly a month, buried a low drive into the corner to snatch a 2-1 victory. The late strike broke Zimbabwean hearts and kept Egypt’s title hopes firmly on track.
South Africa Survives Angola Scare
Meanwhile, in Marrakech, Bafana Bafana faced their own test of character.
South Africa took an early lead through Oswin Appollis but quickly conceded an equalizer to a resilient Angola squad. The match remained deadlocked until the second half.
Lyle Foster proved to be the difference-maker. The striker clinically restored South Africa’s lead, securing a gritty 2-1 win.
As a result, South Africa and Egypt are now tied at the summit of Group B.
Zambia Denies Mali in Casablanca
The drama was equally intense in Group A at the Mohammed V Stadium.
Mali dominated possession but failed to capitalize early, missing a crucial first-half penalty. They finally broke the deadlock in the 60th minute via Lassine Sinayoko. It seemed the Eagles were destined for three points.
Zambia had other plans.
Refusing to accept defeat, Patson Daka rose above the defense in the final seconds of stoppage time. His thunderous header secured a 1-1 draw, silencing the Malian crowd and salvaging a vital point for the Chipolopolo.
What This Means for the Tournament
The AFCON 2025 Day Two results have set up explosive fixtures for later this week.
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Clash of Titans: Egypt and South Africa will face off in Agadir this Friday to determine the leader of Group B.
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Must-Win Games: Trailing hosts Morocco by two points, both Mali and Zambia face critical matches next. Mali takes on the Atlas Lions, while Zambia travels to face Comoros.
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