By Emmanuel Olagunju
The ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco delivered compelling night of drama on Friday as heavyweight nations tightened their grip on qualification while others were left counting the cost of missed chances on a decisive second matchday of the group stage.
Egypt became the first team to seal a place in the Round of 16 after edging South Africa 1–0 in a tense Group B encounter in Agadir. Mohamed Salah once again proved decisive, calmly converting a first-half penalty to give the Pharaohs the lead. Despite being reduced to ten men in the second half, Egypt held firm under sustained pressure.
South Africa thought they had earned a lifeline late on, but a VAR review denied them a penalty, allowing Egypt to see out a hard-fought victory and confirm early progression.
Earlier, hosts Morocco were forced to settle for a 1–1 draw against a resilient Mali side in Rabat, bringing an end to their impressive 19- match winning streak. Brahim Díaz put the Atlas Lions ahead from the penalty spot just before the break, but Mali responded with equal resolve. Lassine Sinayoko struck midway through the second half to restore parity, silencing the home crowd and keeping Group A finely balanced. Morocco remain top of the group but must still finish the job in their final fixture.
Elsewhere in Group A, Zambia and Comoros shared the spoils in a goalless draw in Casablanca. Both sides showed flashes of attacking intent but lacked the cutting edge required to claim all three points, leaving qualification hopes hanging on the final round of matches.
Angola and Zimbabwe also played out a 1–1 draw in Marrakesh. Angola struck first and looked set for their maiden win of the tournament in group B, only for Zimbabwe to rally late and snatch an equaliser, ensuring both teams remain winless heading into their final group games.
With qualification scenarios tightening and pressure mounting, the stage is set for participating countries to further prove their worth.
