The Pharaohs, chasing an unprecedented eighth continental crown, delivered a clinical masterclass against the Elephants, who were desperate to defend their title won on home soil two years ago. But it was Salah who stole the show, combining a goal with a crucial assist to inspire Egypt into the semi-finals, where they'll face a mouthwatering clash against Senegal and former Liverpool teammate Sadio Mané.
Early Fireworks and Pharaohs' Precision
The game exploded into life almost immediately. Just four minutes in, Omar Marmoush capitalized on a defensive error by Odilon Kossounou, slotting home the opener after a pinpoint through ball from Emam Ashour. Egypt were ruthless on the counter, and the Elephants struggled to find rhythm despite dominating possession.
Egypt doubled their lead in the 32nd minute when Rami Rabia rose highest to meet Salah's perfectly delivered corner, heading it into the far corner for a stunning 2-0 advantage. Ivory Coast pulled one back just before halftime through an own goal by Ahmed Fatouh (40'), giving the holders hope as the half ended 2-1.
Salah's Magic Moment Seals It
The second half belonged to the Egyptian captain. In the 52nd minute, a moment of sheer brilliance unfolded: Rabia chipped a long ball over the top from deep inside his own half, Ashour controlled it superbly and delivered an exquisite outside-of-the-boot pass. Salah held off his marker and poked home with composure to make it 3-1 – his fourth goal of the tournament!
Ivory Coast refused to surrender, pulling another back in the 73rd minute through Guéla Doué's clever backheel in a goalmouth scramble. The Elephants laid siege in the closing stages, but Egypt's defense, led by the experienced Mohamed El Shenawy, held firm through a tense finale.
Salah's Heroics: Goal, Assist, and MOTM Glory
Salah's performance was nothing short of legendary: one goal, one assist (from his corner for Rabia's header), constant threat on the wing, and tireless leadership. The Liverpool superstar was rightfully named Man of the Match by CAF, with fans and pundits hailing his return to peak form on the continental stage.
This victory marks a huge statement for Egypt under coach Hossam Hassan. The Pharaohs have now reached at least the semi-finals in their quest to end a long wait for glory since 2010. Salah, with 11 AFCON goals overall, is edging closer to national records and proving once again that when the big moments arrive, he delivers.
Egypt now turn their attention to the semi-final against Senegal on January 14 in Tangier – a rematch of past finals and a chance for Salah to settle old scores with Mané. The dream is alive, and with Mo in this mood, anything is possible!
What a night for Egyptian football – and what a reminder that Mo Salah remains Africa's ultimate big-game player!