A first-half penalty from talismanic captain Mohamed Salah proved to be the difference in a match that tested the Pharaohs' defensive mettle to the limit.
Drama in Agadir The game started as a tactical battle, but the intensity shifted just before the interval. In the 45th minute, Egypt was awarded a penalty after South Africa’s Khuliso Mudau was judged to have fouled Mohamed Salah in the box following a VAR review. Salah stepped up and coolly dinked a 'Panenka' penalty past Ronwen Williams to give Egypt the lead.
However, the celebrations were short-lived. Two minutes into first-half stoppage time, Egyptian right-back Mohamed Hany, who was already on a yellow card, was sent off for a reckless stamp on Teboho Mokoena.
Bafana Bafana Frustrated With a one-man advantage for the entire second half, South Africa dominated possession and launched wave after wave of attacks. Bafana Bafana produced 16 shots in total, but they met an inspired Mohamed El Shenawy in the Egyptian goal.
The South Africans thought they had earned a lifeline late in the game when a handball appeal against Yasser Ibrahim went to VAR, but the referee ultimately ruled against a penalty, much to the frustration of coach Hugo Broos.
Qualification Secured The win moves Egypt to 6 points at the top of Group B, guaranteeing them a top-two finish. South Africa remains on 3 points and will now face a "must-win" final group game against Zimbabwe to ensure their progression.
Egypt’s final group match will be against Angola on December 29, where they will look to maintain their perfect record.