Egypt progressed to the Africa Cup of Nations knockout stages amidst major controversy, securing a 1-0 victory over South Africa in a match dominated by contentious Video Assistant Referee decisions.
Salah's Chip Decides Tense First Half
Following a cautious opening, the game's pivotal moment arrived just before the interval. Egyptian superstar Mohamed Salah went down in the area under contact from South African defender Khuliso Mudau. After a lengthy VAR review, referee Pacifique Ndabihawenimana pointed to the spot.
Salah displayed remarkable composure, delicately chipping his penalty straight down the middle to give the Pharaohs a lead they would never relinquish. The goal proved decisive in a match of fine margins.
Egypt's Resilient Ten-Man Defence
The complexion of the tie shifted dramatically moments after the restart. Egypt's Mohamed Hany received his second yellow card for a reckless challenge on the touchline, reducing his side to ten men for the entire second period.
Despite their numerical advantage, South Africa produced a surprisingly blunt attacking display. They struggled to create clear chances against a disciplined and deep-lying Egyptian defence, which organised superbly to protect their slender lead.
Late VAR Drama Denies South Africa
The controversy reached its peak deep into stoppage time. A powerful drive from South Africa's Teboho Mokoena struck the arm of the diving Egyptian defender Yasser Ibrahim on the edge of the box.
The referee initially awarded a free-kick, but was instructed by VAR to review the incident on the pitch-side monitor. In a decision that incensed the South African bench and players, Ndabihawenimana reversed his call, deciding no penalty should be given.
This late reprieve sealed Egypt's passage to the last-16 with a perfect six points from their two group matches. For South Africa, their fate now hinges on a final group game against Zimbabwe, with progression likely setting up a daunting clash with either Ivory Coast or Cameroon in the next round.
