In one of the most dramatic spectacles of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, hosts Egypt edged South Africa 1–0 after a heart-stopping sequence in the dying moments of their Group B clash. What should have been curtains saw a surreal finale — with a last-gasp South African effort nearly sparking wild celebrations before the final whistle sealed Egypt’s victory.
Salah’s Penalty Decides a Tense Encounter
The match’s only goal came from the penalty spot, converted by Mohamed Salah in the first half. Despite Egypt playing much of the game with ten men following a red card, the Pharaohs managed to cling onto their narrow lead thanks to resolute defending and tactical discipline.
The result sees Egypt through to the AFCON knockout stages, while South Africa, despite a spirited performance, are left to rue missed opportunities in a match they had hoped to avoid defeat.
The Final Heart-Stopping Moment
In what will be remembered as the AFCON’s most dramatic ending so far, the final whistle seemed to have long passed when a South African attacker unleashed a powerful strike in the 101st minute — well after the expiration of the allotted stoppage time. Fans and players alike expected the ball to find the back of the net, which would have brought South Africa level and plunged the game into chaos.
However, the ball was somehow kept out — either by an incredible save or an instinctive defensive block — leaving South African players in visible disbelief and Egyptian players erupting in relief and joy at the escape.
Player Reactions and Pitchside Emotion
The emotions on the pitch told the story of the entire encounter: South African players, moments from what would have been a dramatic equaliser, appeared stunned and on the verge of tears, while Egyptian players celebrated wildly, aware they had sneaked a vital win. Supporters took to social media to describe the sequence as “unbelievable,” “cinematic football drama,” and a moment unlikely to be put into words.
