The 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations entered a critical phase on Friday as Matchday 5 delivered high-stakes encounters, dramatic goals, and results that have reshaped the race for the knockout stage.
In Group B, Egypt strengthened their grip on qualification with a narrow 1-0 victory over South Africa in Agadir.
Mohamed Salah’s decisive penalty lifted the Pharaohs to six points, giving them control of the group, while Bafana Bafana now face a must-win final match to keep their hopes alive.
Earlier, Angola and Zimbabwe battled to a 1-1 draw in Marrakech. Gelson Dala put Angola ahead, only for Knowledge Musona to cancel it out for Zimbabwe, leaving both teams on a single point and under immense pressure ahead of the final round.
Group A saw equally tense action. Zambia and Comoros played out a 1-1 draw in Casablanca, keeping the group finely balanced.
In the night’s headline clash at Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, hosts Morocco and Mali shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw, with both goals coming from penalties.
Brahim Díaz gave Morocco an early lead before Lassine Sinayoko equalised for Mali. Morocco maintains its unbeaten run and top position, while Mali face a pressure-filled final match to secure progression.
Friday’s results highlighted the unforgiving nature of AFCON 2025. Egypt and Morocco remain in strong positions, but for teams like Angola, Zimbabwe, Mali, and Zambia, every remaining fixture now carries knockout-level consequences. The fight for survival is on, and the stakes could not be higher.
As the tournament moves into the decisive final round of group matches, tomorrow promises more thrilling encounters.
Teams will chase victories to secure progression or stage dramatic comebacks, ensuring that AFCON 2025 continues to deliver tension, excitement, and unforgettable moments.