This result marks a massive blow to Ivory Coast's hopes of retaining their title, while Egypt continue their quest for an eighth AFCON crown – extending their record as the competition's most successful nation.
Explosive Start: Marmoush Strikes Early
The game ignited from the very first whistle. Just four minutes in, Omar Marmoush capitalised on a defensive lapse from Odilon Kossounou, latching onto a precise through ball from Emam Ashour to slot home the opener. Egypt were clinical, aggressive, and dominant in the early exchanges, punishing Ivory Coast's sluggish start.
The Pharaohs doubled their lead in the 32nd minute when defender Rami Rabia rose highest to power home a header from a corner, leaving goalkeeper Yahia Fofana helpless. At 2-0, Egypt looked in complete control.
Ivory Coast Fight Back – But Only Briefly
The Elephants refused to roll over. Just before half-time, a dangerous cross deflected off Egypt's Ahmed Abou El Fotouh for an unfortunate own goal in the 40th minute, pulling one back and giving Ivory Coast renewed hope heading into the break (2-1).
The second half saw more end-to-end action. Egypt restored their two-goal cushion in the 52nd minute through captain Mohamed Salah, who finished off a brilliant low cross from Emam Ashour with his trademark composure. This was Salah's fourth goal of the tournament – a crucial strike that proved decisive.
Ivory Coast threw everything forward in the closing stages. Guéla Doué pulled one back in the 73rd minute with a clever instinctive backheel from close range following a corner, setting up a tense finale (3-2). Despite late pressure and several near-misses, Egypt's defence – marshalled superbly by goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy – held firm through added time.
Key Moments and Stats
- Possession heavily favoured Ivory Coast (around 71%), but Egypt were ruthless on the counter.
- Shots on target were even, highlighting a game full of quality chances.
- Yellow cards flew as the match grew scrappy, but Egypt managed the game intelligently under coach Hossam Hassan.
This victory sets up a blockbuster semi-final reunion between Salah and his former Liverpool teammate Sadio Mané when Egypt face Senegal on January 14 in Tanger. The Pharaohs have reached the last four for the sixth consecutive AFCON – a testament to their consistency and big-game mentality.
Salah, now with 11 AFCON goals in his career, continues to chase that elusive continental title. After this result, Egypt look like genuine contenders once again.
What a night for African football – drama, quality, and no shortage of talking points! The Pharaohs march on!