In a thrilling Group B finale at AFCON 2023, late goals propel Egypt to the knockout stages, adding drama and suspense to their tournament journey.
Egypt secured a spot in the Africa Cup of Nations last 16 after a dramatic 2-2 draw against Cape Verde, concluding the intense Group B clashes in Abidjan. Initially poised to finish third, the Pharaohs’ fortunes changed with stoppage-time goals in both their match and Ghana’s game against Mozambique.
Forward Mostafa Mohamed seemingly sealed a 93rd-minute victory, but Cape Verde leveled six minutes later. Despite the late twist, Egypt secured second place as Ghana squandered a 2-0 lead in added time against Mozambique. Mohamed Salah, injured and watching from the stands, added to the nervous atmosphere as The Pharaohs progresses to the knockout stages.
During the first half, Egypt trailed due to Benchimol’s well-placed finish. A halftime substitution saw Trezeguet leveling with a volley in the 50th minute. Understanding that victory secured their advancement, the Pharaohs celebrated wildly after Mohamed’s added-time goal.
VAR scrutiny followed, questioning whether Mohamed controlled Trezeguet’s pass with his chest or hand, but the goal stood. Drama unfolded as Cape Verde equalized, testing Egypt’s hard-earned progress. Despite Salah’s absence, they managed to secure a knockout spot despite drawing all three group games in Ivory Coast.
Salah’s leg injury forced him out of the action, leaving a cloud of uncertainty about his potential return. Trezeguet’s impactful performance and Egypt’s resilience demonstrated their determination, emphasizing their pursuit of the AFCON title.
Despite setbacks and the unexpected twists of Group B, Egypt’s journey to the knockout stages adds another layer of excitement to the tournament, leaving room for Salah’s potential return in their quest for continental glory.
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