Egypt maintained a 1–0 lead over South Africa in their Africa Cup of Nations Group B match in Agadir on Friday, thanks to a first-half penalty converted by captain Mohamed Salah.
The decisive goal came in the 45th minute after South Africa defender Khuliso Mudau fouled in the penalty area, allowing Salah to score with a left-footed shot to the centre of the goal.
However, moments later, Egypt was reduced to 10 men when Mohamed Hany received a second yellow card for a foul.
Despite the dismissal, Egypt went into the break with the lead, having showcased disciplined defending and controlled possession throughout the first half.
In the second half, South Africa increased the tempo and committed more players forward in search of an equaliser, while Egypt dropped deeper and aimed to create chances on the counter-attack.
Bafana Bafana continued to challenge Egypt’s defence with direct passes and late runs into the box.
A late VAR check for a potential penalty in favour of South Africa was reviewed and ultimately overturned, with no penalty awarded.
As it stands, Egypt is on course to secure six points in Group B, placing them firmly in contention for a spot in the knockout stage.
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