According to Reuters, Mohamed Salah scored a 97th-minute penalty to save Egypt from a 2-2 draw with Mozambique at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium on Sunday. Mozambique were close to winning their first ever Africa Cup of Nations match, but Salah’s penalty denied them that opportunity. The penalty was awarded after a Video Assistant Referee check and crossed the line after hitting the post off a foul by Mozambique defender Domingos Macandza.
Egypt had a strong start with a goal from Mostafa Mohamed within the first two minutes, but Mozambique capitalized on missed opportunities and scored two goals in the second half, by Witi and substitute Clesio Bauque, securing a lead. However, Egypt rallied back as Salah’s penalty saved the day for the Pharaohs, preventing a first ever win for Mozambique in the Africa Cup of Nations.
Mozambique midfielder Guima expressed his disappointment at not winning but remained optimistic, stating that the experience will make them stronger. Egypt will face Ghana in their next match, while Mozambique is set to play against Cape Verde.
The Pharaohs had the majority of the possession and dominated the game, but allowed Mozambique to make a comeback in the second half, resulting in a tense draw. Salah missed a chance to score, but Mostafa Mohamed capitalized on the opportunity and found the net from 15 yards, putting Egypt in the lead early in the game.
Egypt continued to press for a second goal, but Mozambique had their moments, with Witi scoring an equalizer with a powerful header on 55 minutes. They then took the lead with a second goal from Clesio after just three minutes, turning the game around in their favor.
Egypt had several close calls, including a clever flick from Hamdi Fathi that hit the post, before finally winning the penalty that saved them from a shocking loss. The team will breathe a sigh of relief after the narrow escape, with a tough match against Ghana on the horizon.
The game showcased Egypt’s dominance but also revealed their vulnerability, while Mozambique proved they are a force to be reckoned with in the Africa Cup of Nations. It was a thrilling contest that ended in a dramatic draw, leaving both teams with valuable lessons to take into their upcoming fixtures.
(Reporting by Nick SaidEditing by Toby Davis and Christian Radnedge)
