Led by superstar Mohamed Salah, Egypt secured early qualification for the round of 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The Egyptian side defeated South Africa 1–0 on Friday in Agadir and, after two matches, was confirmed as group winner, reaching the knockout stage ahead of schedule.

The decisive moment came in the 45th minute, when the 33-year-old Liverpool forward converted a penalty following a VAR review. Referee Pacifique Ndabihawenimana of Burundi ruled that South Africa’s Lyle Foster had struck Salah in the face inside the penalty area. Salah calmly stepped up and converted from the spot.

Shortly after taking the lead, Egypt’s task became significantly more difficult. Right-back Mohamed Hany received a yellow card and was then shown a red, leaving Egypt down to ten men for the entire second half. From that point on, the team focused on defensive discipline and game management. South Africa used their numerical advantage to apply sustained pressure after the break, repeatedly pushing forward in search of an equalizer.

Late in the match, a controversial incident sparked a prolonged debate over a possible handball penalty in South Africa’s favor. The referee reviewed the play but ultimately decided not to award a penalty. Egypt held on to their narrow lead until the final whistle, securing a crucial victory.

Earlier in the day, Angola and Zimbabwe drew 1–1, a result that confirmed Egypt’s position at the top of the group. Despite adversity, the Pharaohs advanced with confidence, once again relying on Salah’s leadership and experience on the continental stage.