Continental pride and qualification ambitions will be on the line when Egypt and South Africa clash in a highly anticipated Group B encounter at the Grand Stade d’Agadir, Morocco.
In a preview published on Friday, CAF Online described the fixture as the latest chapter in one of Africa’s most enduring football rivalries. Memories remain fresh of their last AFCON meeting, when South Africa shocked host nation Egypt in the 2019 Round of 16, with Thembinkosi Lorch’s goal silencing a packed Cairo International Stadium.
Although the stakes may be less dramatic this time, the match remains pivotal, with both teams coming off victories in their opening Group B games. A second win would place either side in a strong position to secure a spot in the knockout stages.
Egypt edged Zimbabwe 2–1 in their opener, with captain Mohamed Salah scoring a stoppage-time winner. Head coach Hossam Hassan, who featured in Egypt’s 1998 AFCON final victory over South Africa, acknowledged the challenge posed by Bafana Bafana.
“South Africa are a very strong team and among the favourites for this competition. We respect them and know their strengths. They play aggressively and favour a short-passing style, but we have prepared plans to contain them,” Hassan said.
Midfielder Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet also stressed the importance of the match, noting that the team is focused on moving past the disappointment of their 2019 defeat.
“That loss is in the past. This is an important game, and we are ready. We want to make the Egyptian people happy and show that we are in a good position,” he said.
South Africa, meanwhile, arrive in Agadir full of confidence after a 2–1 win over Angola in their opening fixture. Coach Hugo Broos, who guided Cameroon to AFCON glory against Egypt in 2017, said his side is eager for the challenge.
“Egypt are seven-time champions and have outstanding players like Salah and Marmoush. But we believe in our own quality and will try to show it on the pitch,” Broos said.
Key to South Africa’s attack is Lyle Foster, who scored and provided an assist against Angola. The striker said team morale is high and the players are fully focused.
“We are both on three points, and a win will put one foot in the next round. Everyone is motivated and prepared,” Foster said.
Recent statistics favour South Africa, who are unbeaten in their last six meetings with Egypt, recording four wins and two draws. Egypt’s last victory over Bafana Bafana dates back to a 1–0 friendly win in London in 2006.
As the two sides renew their rivalry, fans can expect a tightly contested match shaped by history, tactical discipline and the quest for early qualification.
