Mohamed Salah stole the headlines when Pharaohs faced Zimbabwe in the Africa Cup of Nations opening match in Friday, June 21 at the Cairo International Stadium.
A cagey first half saw the hosts create three significant chances in the space of 20 minutes, with the Warriors sitting back and waiting to counter through Khama Billiat and Knowledge Musona.
After the half-hour mark, the team in the dazzling yellow strip took off the stage-fright cloak, taking the game to Javier Aguirre’s men, who despite almost bowing to pressure, managed to catch the Warriors’ defence off-guard, 24-year-old Mahmoud Trezeguet slaloming his to slot home the only goal of the game in the 41st minute.
After the break, it was Zimbabwe who came out strong, testing Mohamed El-Shenawy at the Egyptian post.
Zimbabwe goalkeeper Edmond Sibanda had to be taken off in the 80thminute after an injury and was replaced by Elvis Chipezeze.
Liverpool talisman Mo Salah will have a night to forget, having missed a glorious opportunity to score late in the game, slotting the past the goalkeeper only to see the ball flash wide.
The Pharaohs now lead Group A with 3 points. Zimbabwe fall to last place.
Egypt centre-back Mahmoud Alaa was named the Man of the Match of the AFCON opener between Egypt and Zimbabwe. He made 6 Clearances, 2 Blocked shots ,2 Interceptions, 100% Tackles ,won 6 Duels and Won 3 Shots
A cagey first half saw the hosts create three significant chances in the space of 20 minutes, with the Warriors sitting back and waiting to counter through Khama Billiat and Knowledge Musona.
After the half-hour mark, the team in the dazzling yellow strip took off the stage-fright cloak, taking the game to Javier Aguirre’s men, who despite almost bowing to pressure, managed to catch the Warriors’ defence off-guard, 24-year-old Mahmoud Trezeguet slaloming his to slot home the only goal of the game in the 41st minute.
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| Mahmoud Alaa |
Zimbabwe goalkeeper Edmond Sibanda had to be taken off in the 80thminute after an injury and was replaced by Elvis Chipezeze.
Liverpool talisman Mo Salah will have a night to forget, having missed a glorious opportunity to score late in the game, slotting the past the goalkeeper only to see the ball flash wide.
The Pharaohs now lead Group A with 3 points. Zimbabwe fall to last place.
WATCH the Highlights of the game
SD /LNP
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