The second round of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 delivered late drama and decisive results as Egypt, South Africa, and Zambia came from behind to secure crucial points in Groups A and B.
Mohamed Salah’s stoppage-time strike rescued Egypt from a frustrating defeat against Zimbabwe at Stade Mohammed V, Casablanca.
Despite controlling possession for most of the match, the Pharaohs fell behind in the 20th minute when Prince Dube capitalized on a Jordan Jalai cross to beat goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy.
Egypt responded in the 63rd minute through Amr Marmoush, who raced down the wing and fired an emphatic equalizer.
The game remained finely balanced until the dying moments, when Salah controlled a high ball inside the area, slipped past his marker, and drilled a decisive finish to spark celebrations among the Egyptian fans.
Bafana Bafana launched their campaign with a hard-fought 2–1 win over Angola at the Grand Stade de Marrakech.
Oswin Appollis gave South Africa an early lead in the 17th minute, finishing smartly from a loose clearance.
Angola responded in the 34th minute through Show, who cleverly flicked Fredy’s inswinging free-kick past Ronwen Williams.
South Africa regained the upper hand after coach Hugo Broos introduced Moremi, with Lyle Foster curling a brilliant right-footed strike into the top corner in the 79th minute.
Broos acknowledged his team’s momentary lapse after taking the lead but hailed their ability to regain focus.
Angola coach Patrice Beaumelle lamented costly mistakes that proved decisive, but remained optimistic about the remaining group matches.
Zambia snatched a dramatic late point against Mali, thanks to Patson Daka’s stoppage-time header. Lassine Sinayoko had given Mali the lead in the 61st minute after sustained pressure, but Zambia remained resilient.
Goalkeeper Willard Mwanza made a crucial penalty save to keep the Chipolopolo in contention, and Daka’s late strike ensured a 1–1 draw.
Mali coach Tom Saintfiet admitted the draw was painful, noting that a missed penalty and late lapse cost his team a deserved victory.
Zambia coach Moses Sichone praised his side’s determination, emphasizing the importance of fighting until the final whistle in a competitive group.
The results leave Egypt and South Africa in strong positions in Group B, while Zambia salvages a valuable point in Group A.
With the tournament only just beginning, teams are already feeling the pressure of delivering under intense scrutiny and high expectations.