Egypt vs South Africa Player Ratings as Salah's Penalty Decides Tight Clash

In the matchday 2 encounter of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt secured a vital 1-0 victory over South Africa at the Adrar Stadium in Agadir, Morocco. The result allowed the Pharaohs to take firm control of Group B, virtually guaranteeing their place in the knockout rounds.

From the opening whistle, Egypt demonstrated early control and intent. The Salah spark set the tone as the Pharaohs dominated possession, pushing South Africa into a compact defensive shape. Despite Egypt’s relentless pressure, the South African backline remained disciplined through the first 40 minutes, driven by Khuliso Mudau’s timely interceptions and composed defensive work.

The breakthrough came in the 45th minute following a tense VAR review for a foul on Mohamed Salah inside the penalty box. The referee pointed to the spot, and the Egyptian captain calmly converted down the middle, sending the Adrar Stadium into wild celebration.

However, Egypt’s joy quickly turned to concern in stoppage time. Defender Mohamed Hany, already booked earlier, committed a late tackle on Teboho Mokoena and was shown a second yellow card, resulting in a red. The sending-off shifted the balance just before halftime and forced the Pharaohs to readjust their approach.

At the start of the second half, head coach Hossam Hassan reacted immediately by substituting pacey forward Omar Marmoush with Emam Ashour to reinforce midfield solidity. South Africa, eager to capitalise on their numerical advantage, pressed forward with aggression. Shots from Aubrey Modiba and Tshepang Moremi tested Mohamed El Shenawy, who pulled off two crucial saves to preserve Egypt’s slender lead.

Around the 65th minute, Egypt nearly doubled their advantage when Salah launched a sharp counter-attack, but Ronwen Williams produced an outstanding save to deny him. The closing stages became a test of endurance, with Egypt relying on El Shenawy’s composure and the tireless work rate of their midfield to secure the win. Aubrey Modiba's curling 79th minute effort seemed destined for the bottom corner but the Egyptian goalie's continued brilliance kept the scoreline intact.

Drama peaked when South Africa was initially awarded a penalty for a handball by Yasser Ibrahim. However, after a lengthy VAR review, the referee overturned the decision, ruling the contact accidental or outside the area.

Ultimately, the Pharaohs held on for their first competitive victory over South Africa since 2006—a statement result that bolsters their AFCON campaign. For readers following the Egypt vs South Africa player ratings, this disciplined and determined performance showcased leadership, tactical resilience, and Salah’s pivotal influence on both ends of the pitch.

Egypt Player Ratings vs South Africa

Here are the Egypt player ratings vs South Africa:

South Africa Player Ratings vs Egypt

Here are the South Africa player ratings vs Egypt:

Sportsdunia's Player of the Match goes to El Shenawy of Egypt.