Egypt defeated the defending champions, Ivory Coast, 3-2 in a thrilling AFCON 2025 quarter-final in Agadir, booking their place in the semi-finals and
Egypt defeated the defending champions, Ivory Coast, 3-2 in a thrilling AFCON 2025 quarter-final in Agadir, booking their place in the semi-finals and keeping alive hopes of a record-extending eighth continental crown.
Egypt started the match with much intensity, striking early in the fourth minute through Omar Marmoush, who latched onto Emam Ashour’s superb through ball and finished clinically past Yahia Fofana.
The Pharaohs doubled their lead soon after when Mohamed Salah delivered a precise cross for Ramy Rabia, whose header made it 2-0.
Ivory Coast, however, found a lifeline before halftime when Ahmed Fatouh’s own goal reduced the deficit, giving the Elephants hope going into the break.
The second half continued at a frenetic pace with Egypt extending their advantage again when Salah himself scored, showing his trademark composure to make it 3-1.
Yet Ivory Coast refused to surrender, with Guela Doué pulling one back to set up a tense finale.
The Elephants pressed hard, using their physicality and attacking depth to test Egypt’s defence, but the Pharaohs held firm thanks to disciplined organisation and crucial saves from their goalkeeper, Mohamed El Shenaawy.
By the final whistle, Egypt’s 3-2 triumph had ended Ivory Coast’s reign as champions and propelled them into a semi-final clash with Senegal.
COMMENTS