Premier League forwards Mohamed Salah and Lyle Foster were the decisive figures as the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 kicked off in Morocco. Both Egypt and South Africa secured vital 2-1 victories in their Group B openers on Monday.
Liverpool star Mohamed Salah delivered a dramatic winner for Egypt. He scored in the first minute of added time to snatch a 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe in Agadir.
The Pharaohs, record seven-time champions, fell behind to a Prince Dube goal in the 20th minute. They equalised through Manchester City’s Omar Marmoush in the 63rd minute. Relentless pressure finally paid off in stoppage time. Salah’s perseverance secured a hard-fought three points for one of the tournament favourites.
Mohamed Salah's winner for Egypt vs Zimbabwe.
Classic Mo with that finish.👑 pic.twitter.com/xf4VpM5VOR
— Liverpool Xtra (@Liverpool_Extra) December 22, 2025Earlier in Marrakesh, Burnley striker Lyle Foster scored the winner for South Africa. His 79th-minute strike sealed a 2-1 comeback win over Angola. South Africa took an early lead through Oswin Appollis in the 21st minute. Angola equalised before halftime through Show.
The second half saw South Africa dominate. After hitting the crossbar and having a goal ruled offside, Foster finally found the net to secure the victory.
Read: Morocco Defeats Jordan After Extra Time to Win Arab Cup
The wins set the stage for a high-stakes clash between Egypt and South Africa this Friday in Agadir. The match will likely decide the Group B winner.
Historically, Egypt holds the advantage. They have won two of the three previous AFCON meetings between the nations. South Africa coach Hugo Broos admitted his team’s first-half performance was poor. He praised the impact of substitute Tshepang Moremi in revitalising the team after the break.
In Group A, Mali conceded a late equaliser, resulting in a 1-1 draw with Zambia. Coach Tom Saintfiet described the result as “very painful.” The hosts, Morocco, are leading the group after their opening win.
