Salah’s injury-time winner seals comeback victory for Egypt against Zimbabwe

Mohamed Salah delivered when it mattered most as Egypt began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a hard-fought comeback victory over Zimbabwe in Morocco.

The Pharaohs dominated possession for long spells but found themselves trailing at the break after Prince Dube scored against the run of play to give Zimbabwe a surprise first-half lead in Agadir. Egypt created several chances before and after the interval, only to be frustrated by wasteful finishing and an assured performance from veteran goalkeeper Washington Arubi, who kept the Warriors in the contest.

Egypt’s pressure finally paid off in the 64th minute when Omar Marmoush struck to restore parity, injecting renewed belief into Rui Vitória’s side. As the match edged towards a draw, Salah’s presence proved decisive. Deep into injury time, the Liverpool forward reacted quickest to a loose ball inside the area, calmly poking home the winner to secure all three points for the seven-time champions.

The victory gives Egypt a winning start to their Group B campaign, though improvements will be needed ahead of their next fixture against South Africa in Agadir. Zimbabwe, despite the defeat, will take encouragement before facing Angola in Marrakesh.