CASABLANCA-(MaraviPost)-Egypt became the first nation to book a place in the last 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, according to CAF standings, following a hard-fought 1–0 victory over South Africa in a tense Group B encounter on Friday evening.

The Pharaohs leaned on Mohamed Salah’s first half penalty to secure all three points in a match marked by VAR drama and resolute defending.

The decisive moment arrived just before half time when VAR intervened after South Africa defender Khuliso Mudau was judged to have fouled Salah inside the penalty area.

The Liverpool forward stepped up confidently and converted from the spot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to give Egypt the lead.

Egypt’s task became significantly tougher minutes later when right back Mohamed Hany was shown a second yellow card and sent off.

The dismissal forced the Pharaohs to reshuffle and adopt a more conservative approach for the remainder of the contest.

South Africa came out with renewed intensity in the second half, dominating possession and pinning Egypt deep in their own half.

Bafana Bafana moved the ball purposefully and attempted to stretch Egypt’s compact defensive block, creating pressure but failing to carve out a clear cut chance.

Despite playing with ten men, Egypt remained a threat on the counter attack with Salah and his teammates exploiting spaces whenever they appeared. Their backline stayed disciplined under sustained pressure, frustrating South Africa’s attacking efforts.

Late in the game, South Africa appealed for a penalty after another VAR review but the decision went against them, compounding their frustration as the clock ticked down.

Egypt’s goalkeeper and defenders showed composure in the closing moments to preserve their slender advantage.

At the final whistle, Egypt celebrated a vital victory that strengthened their grip on Group B with six points from two games and boosted confidence ahead of the knockout stages.

South Africa, it was a painful defeat, especially after a much improved second half performance that ultimately went unrewarded.

The Maravi Post