Egypt see off Ivory Coast in a dramatic AFCON last-eight clash
Mohamed Salah produced another decisive performance, scoring his fourth goal of the Africa Cup of Nations as Egypt edged defending champions Ivory Coast 3-2 in Agadir. The Pharaohs’ win sets up a high-profile semifinal against Sadio Mane and Senegal, reigniting one of Africa’s fiercest football rivalries in the knockout rounds. It was a game that swung on moments of quality, resilience, and a sense that this edition of AFCON may be written by the atmosphere as much as the scoreboard.
A tale of two halves and a coronation of Salah’s influence
Egypt approached the 90 minutes with the knowledge that they needed to translate their attacking intent into tangible results against a robust Ivory Coast side that had dominated much of the opening phase of the tournament. The opening exchanges suggested a tight contest, but Salah, working on the left flank and often cutting inside, found pockets of space to hurt the West African champions. His first goal came midway through the half as he latched onto a clever through-ball and finished with poise beyond the outstretched fingers of the Ivory Coast goalkeeper.
The Ivorians, undeterred by the setback, responded with nerve and vigor, pressing high and creating several half-chances that tested the Egyptian defense. They were rewarded with an equaliser just before the break, a strike that reminded supporters that this Ivory Coast side could still turn the tide in a flash. The urgency in the second half grew as both teams pressed for control; the match threatened to swing with every attacking move.
Salah, the difference-maker, and a pivotal Egyptian threat
With a position of influence on the wing and as a central outlet, Salah became the fulcrum of Egypt’s attacking threat. His second goal of the night, a well-placed finish after a brilliant diagonal run, reminded everyone why he is one of Africa’s most dangerous players in elite competition. The goal brought moments of celebration in the stands and on the touchline, where the Egyptian bench signalled their belief that their captain could guide them through to a landmark semifinal.
The Ivorians responded with a spell of pressure, forcing a nervy period for Egypt’s goalkeeper and defense. Yet Egypt’s structure held steady, and Salah continued to influence the game with intelligent movement, adept link-up play, and a late burst of pace that kept Ivory Coast on the back foot.
Semifinal preview: Africa’s big two renew rivalries
As the dust settled on a night that will live long in AFCON memory, Egypt moved through to face Senegal in a semifinal that promises a marquee clash. The encounter will pit Salah’s national team against the Senegalese talisman Mane, a pairing that has delivered memorable moments across club and country. For Egypt, the path to glory now looks markedly tougher, but the opportunity to multiply their chances comes from a victory over a side that has consistently demonstrated quality at this level.
Senegal, the former champions and a nation with a deep pool of attacking talent, will approach the game with confidence after navigating a fixture that tested their resolve. For Egypt, the semifinal represents a chance to back up a famous win with a performance that could redefine a campaign that began with significant expectations. The AFCON semi will function as a clash of strategy and temperament, with Salah and Mane taking center stage in a duel that could shape the tournament’s narrative.
What this means for Egypt and the AFCON narrative
Tonight’s result confirms that Egypt still believes in their capacity to compete with Africa’s best. The combination of Salah’s individual brilliance and a cohesive team effort shows a path toward the title, should they continue to harness momentum. With an eye on the broader implications, the semifinal is not only a test of tactics but a test of the team’s mental durability in a tournament known for its high stakes and dramatic twists.
As fans brace for the rematch between Salah’s Egypt and Mane’s Senegal, the tournament’s narrative continues to evolve. This quarterfinal victory is more than a result; it is a statement that the AFCON 2026 phase remains open to surprise, resilience, and the moment of magic that only a player like Salah can provide.
