AFCON 2025: Top 5 Things We Learned from Egypt vs Zimbabwe

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AFCON 2025: Top 5 Things We Learned from Egypt vs Zimbabwe

Egypt’s hard-fought win over Zimbabwe in the AFCON qualifiers was more than just three points on the board, it was a statement of intent as they moved joint top of Group alongside South Africa whom they play next,

The Pharaohs had to dig deep against a disciplined Warriors side that struck first and defended with grit, but ultimately Mohamed Salah’s brilliance and Hossam Hassan’s tactical boldness carried Egypt through.

Here are the five biggest takeaways from Egypt’s triumph over Zimbabwe.

Mo Salah: Clear-Headed and Classy

After weeks of speculation surrounding his future at Liverpool, marked by a bust-up and links to a Saudi move, Mohamed Salah looked liberated in Egypt’s colors. His decisive winner against Zimbabwe wasn’t just a goal; it was a statement. Facing a stubborn low block, Salah’s composure and joy on the pitch reminded us that class is permanent. Egypt’s talisman seems to have put the noise behind him, channeling his energy into leading his nation.

Hossam Hassan: Ruthless and Tactical

Egypt’s coach, Hossam Hassan, an AFCON legend himself, showed he’s not bound by sentiment. His bold decision to substitute playmaker Emam Ashour after just 33 minutes for striker Mostafa Mohamed changed the game’s rhythm. Mohamed’s aerial presence and physicality pinned Zimbabwe’s center-backs, disrupted their ball circulation, and neutralized their trademark diagonal balls to speedy wingers like Msendami. It was a masterstroke that tilted the balance in Egypt’s favor.

Zimbabwe: Warriors with Bite

Zimbabwe proved they are no pushovers. Under new coach Mario Marinică, the Warriors displayed unity and tactical discipline. Their low block frustrated Egypt, and their lightning transitions caught the Pharaohs off guard, culminating in the opening goal. Though they eventually succumbed to Salah and Marmoush’s brilliance, Zimbabwe’s spirited performance showed they are building a team capable of troubling Africa’s giants.

Salah & Marmoush: AFCON’s Deadliest Duo?

When Egypt looked stifled, it was the combination of Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush that unlocked Zimbabwe’s defense. Marmoush’s dynamism complemented Salah’s guile, and together they turned frustration into triumph. If this partnership continues to flourish, Egypt may have found the duo to carry them all the way to AFCON glory in 2025.

Egypt’s Winning Mentality Shines Through

Perhaps the biggest lesson is Egypt’s refusal to panic. Conceding first against a disciplined opponent could have rattled lesser sides, but the Pharaohs leaned on experience, tactical adjustments, and individual brilliance to claw their way back. This resilience is the hallmark of champions and a reminder that Egypt remain one of the continent’s most formidable forces.

<!-- Author Start -->Willis Sob<!-- Author End -->

Willis Sob

Author

Willis Sob is an experienced journalist who has been in the game since 2009, covering major assignments around the continent.
His hunger for African football is unmatched, always getting the best angles and facts to feed the fans and quench their thirst.

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