Egypt began their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe in Agadir. The match was characterized by Egypt’s statistical dominance but also by inefficiency in front of goal, requiring a stoppage-time goal from Mohamed Salah to secure three points.

Historically, Egypt is the most successful team in AFCON, with seven titles. Entering the tournament as favorites, Egypt faced Zimbabwe, a team ranked 129th in the FIFA World Rankings. Despite the disparity, Zimbabwe took the lead in the 20th minute through Prince Dube, who scored following a counterattack. This early goal increased the probability of an upset, at least temporarily.

Egypt controlled possession and generated a high volume of offensive output, recording 35 shots, 11 of which were on target. However, conversion rates were low, with only two goals scored. Zimbabwe’s goalkeeper, Washington Arubi, made several key saves, including a notable stop against Trézéguet. Emam Ashour also had a significant chance, but his shot was deflected wide.

Mohamed Salah was involved in multiple attacking sequences but was repeatedly denied by Zimbabwe’s defense. Observational data indicated visible frustration from Salah, but this did not translate into a reduction in work rate or involvement.

Omar Marmoush equalized for Egypt in the 64th minute, capitalizing on sustained pressure and a lapse in Zimbabwe’s defensive structure. This goal shifted momentum, but Egypt continued to struggle with finishing efficiency.

Zimbabwe maintained a defensive posture for most of the match, relying on counterattacks. The team’s defensive metrics were strong until late in the match, but fatigue appeared to impact their ability to maintain structure in the final minutes.

In stoppage time, substitute Mostafa Mohamed won an aerial duel, providing an assist for Salah, who scored the winning goal. This sequence demonstrated the value of tactical substitutions and individual composure under pressure.

Post-match, Salah did not participate in media activities, indicating a focus on recovery and preparation for subsequent fixtures. The match outcome provided three points for Egypt but also highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in finishing and defensive transitions.

In other group matches, Zambia and Mali drew 1-1 in Casablanca, with Patson Daka scoring a late equalizer for Zambia after Lassine Sinayoko’s opener for Mali. South Africa defeated Angola 2-1 in Marrakech, with Lyle Foster scoring the decisive goal.

Egypt’s next match is against South Africa, a fixture with significant implications for group standings. Key performance indicators for Egypt will include conversion rate, defensive solidity, and player recovery.

In summary, Egypt’s win over Zimbabwe was statistically dominant but tactically imperfect. Salah’s late goal was decisive, but the overall performance suggests the need for strategic adjustments as the tournament progresses.