December 23, (THEWILL) — Mohamed Salah struck deep into added time to give Egypt a dramatic 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe in their Africa Cup of Nations Group B opener in Agadir. The Liverpool striker turned in the penalty area before finishing past the goalkeeper to complete the comeback for the seven-time continental champions.
Zimbabwe, who have yet to advance from the group phase in the tournament’s history, went ahead through Prince Dube in the 20th minute. The forward controlled a cross from Emmanuel Jalai and finished calmly to stun the Pharaohs.
Egypt faced further danger when Washington Navaya nearly scored into an unguarded goal moments later. Goalkeeper Washington Arubi kept Zimbabwe ahead with two saves from Omar Marmoush before the interval.
Marmoush brought Egypt level in the 63rd minute, driving in from the left flank and shooting high into the net. The Manchester City attacker’s equaliser gave the North African side fresh impetus in their pursuit of all three points.
Substitute Zizo missed a clear chance 10 minutes later, heading over from close range. Salah’s late intervention spared Egypt further frustration and delivered the perfect start to their campaign.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
