Salah’s late strike rescues Egypt in dramatic AFCON opener against Zimbabwe

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Seven-time African champions Egypt began their Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Zimbabwe, relying on a late intervention from talisman Mohamed Salah to avoid an opening-round upset.

Zimbabwe stunned one of the favourites early, showing composure and tactical discipline to frustrate Egypt’s dominance in possession.

The breakthrough came in the 20th minute when Emmanuel Jalai threaded a precise pass into the box for Prince Dube, who calmly slotted past Mohamed El Shenawy to put Zimbabwe ahead.

Egypt responded with sustained pressure, enjoying overwhelming possession but struggling to convert chances. Salah and Omar Marmoush both went close in the first half, while Washington Arubi produced a series of saves to preserve Zimbabwe’s slender advantage at the break.

The pressure finally told in the 64th minute. Marmoush embarked on a brilliant individual run, cutting inside the area before firing a superb strike under the crossbar to restore parity and reignite Egyptian belief.

With the match seemingly heading for a draw, Egypt pushed relentlessly in search of a winner. Their persistence paid off in stoppage time when Salah latched onto a pass inside the box and drilled a clinical finish inside the right post, sparking wild celebrations among Egyptian players and supporters.

Zimbabwe fought bravely until the final whistle, creating chances of their own and defending with resilience, but were ultimately undone by Egypt’s experience and quality in decisive moments.

The victory gives Egypt a crucial platform in the group stage, highlighting both their attacking depth and reliance on Salah’s leadership under pressure.