Egypt began their AFCON 2025 campaign with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over a brave Zimbabwe side, surviving a stern test that pushed the seven-time champions to their limits.
The Pharaohs entered the contest as overwhelming favorites, but Zimbabwe made it clear from the opening whistle that reputations would count for little. Compact in shape and fearless on the counter, the Warriors disrupted Egypt’s rhythm early, forcing the North Africans into hurried passes and speculative efforts.
Egypt dominated possession in the first half, with Mohamed Salah drifting inside to create space and link play, yet clear chances were scarce. Zimbabwe’s disciplined back line held firm, and goalkeeper Washington Arubi was equal to everything that came his way. Against the run of play, Zimbabwe struck first. A swift counterattack exposed Egypt’s high defensive line, and a well-timed through ball was calmly finished to send the Warriors into a shock lead, silencing the Egyptian support.
Stung into action, Egypt raised their tempo before the break. Their pressure finally told when a flowing move down the right ended with a low cross into the box, converted emphatically to restore parity. The equalizer shifted momentum, and Egypt went into halftime with renewed belief, while Zimbabwe regrouped knowing they were still very much in the contest.
The second half followed a familiar script: Egypt pressing, Zimbabwe resisting. The Warriors continued to defend bravely, throwing bodies in the way of shots and closing down space quickly. Egypt’s midfield began to assert greater control, recycling possession patiently and probing for openings as Zimbabwe’s energy slowly waned.
With time ticking away and frustration growing, Egypt’s quality finally shone through. A moment of brilliance in the final third broke the deadlock, as a precise pass split the defense and set up a composed finish that made it 2–1. The Pharaohs erupted in celebration, while Zimbabwe were left to rue missed opportunities earlier in the match.
The closing stages were tense. Zimbabwe pushed forward in search of an equalizer, committing numbers into attack and testing Egypt’s defensive resolve. The Pharaohs, however, managed the game intelligently, slowing the tempo and seeing out the remaining minutes to secure all three points.
For Egypt, the victory was a reminder that AFCON offers no easy matches. While there were positives in their attacking depth and resilience, questions remain about defensive transitions and efficiency in front of goal. For Zimbabwe, despite the defeat, the performance will inspire confidence. Their organization, courage, and attacking intent proved they can compete with Africa’s elite.
As AFCON 2025 unfolds, Egypt take an important first step, while Zimbabwe leave with pride intact and belief that better results may yet come.