The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is living up to expectations, delivering goals, late drama and early signs of teams ready to challenge for the title as Matchday 2 unfolded in thrilling fashion.
The tournament kicked off on Sunday, December 21, with hosts Morocco cruising to a comfortable 2-0 victory over Comoros, setting the pace for what has already become an exciting competition. Action continued on Monday, December 22, with three matches producing two hard-fought wins and an entertaining draw.
Salah Inspires Egypt to Dramatic Comeback Victory
Egypt began their AFCON campaign with a tense 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe, sealed by a stoppage-time goal from captain Mohamed Salah.
Zimbabwe shocked the seven-time champions in Agadir when Prince Dube opened the scoring in the 20th minute, calmly controlling Emmanuel Jalai’s cross before finishing clinically. Egypt responded with sustained pressure and found their equaliser shortly after the hour mark, as Omar Marmoush cut inside from the left and unleashed a powerful strike into the roof of the net.
Despite wasting several chances to take the lead, including a close-range header from substitute Zizo, the Pharaohs eventually got their reward deep into added time. Salah showed composure and sharp footwork inside the box before turning and firing past Washington Arubi to secure a dramatic win.
The result extended Egypt’s impressive AFCON record, making it 11 matches unbeaten at the tournament. Salah once again proved decisive, leading his side in shots and chances created despite enduring a demanding club season with Liverpool.
South Africa Edge Angola in High-Tempo Encounter
South Africa also got off to a winning start, edging Angola 2-1 in an intense encounter in Marrakesh.
Hugo Broos’ side started brightly and took the lead in the 21st minute through Oswin Appollis, who surged into the box and fired a low effort into the corner. Angola responded before halftime, with Show sliding in to convert Fredy’s free-kick and mark his 50th international appearance with a goal.
The second half was played at a frantic pace, with South Africa seeing a goal ruled out by VAR and hitting the crossbar as they pushed for a winner. Their persistence paid off in the 79th minute when Lyle Foster curled a superb strike past Hugo Marques to send Bafana Bafana fans into celebration.
Despite a frustrating night overall, the Burnley forward delivered when it mattered most. South Africa now turn their attention to a heavyweight clash against Egypt on Boxing Day, while Angola prepares to face Zimbabwe.
Mali, Zambia Share the Spoils
Earlier in the day, Mali and Zambia played out a thrilling 1-1 draw. Mali were left to regret missed opportunities, particularly after El Bilal Touré failed to convert a first-half penalty.
They eventually broke the deadlock in the 61st minute when Lassine Sinayoko reacted quickest to a rebound and finished calmly. However, just as Mali looked set to claim all three points, Zambia struck in the second minute of stoppage time, with Patson Daka scoring late to snatch a vital draw.
AFCON 2025 Fixtures Taking Place Today (December 23)
DR Congo vs Benin Republic – 1:30 p.m.
Senegal vs Botswana – 4:00 p.m.
Nigeria vs Tanzania – 6:30 p.m.
Tunisia vs Uganda – 9:00 p.m.
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