Egypt was saved from an embarassing defeat by Mozambique in their first Africa Cup of Nations encounter on Sunday by Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah.
According to Naija News, the 31-year-old player converted a penalty in the eighth minute of injury time, culminating in a 2-2 tie with Mozambique.
The penalty was granted following a VAR review by the referee, who concluded that Mostafa Mohamed had been fouled in the area at Abidjan’s Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium. Salah’s goal denied Mozambique the chance to capture their first AFCON title.
Egypt, a seven-time African champion, got off to a fast start when Mohamed scored two minutes into the Group B match. The severe heat and humidity of the late afternoon kickoff, on the other hand, seemed to take its toll on the Pharaohs.
Mozambique, who had previously failed to win a match in four prior appearances at the Cup of Nations, equalized in the 55th minute with Witness Quembo.
However, in an unexpected turn of events, Mozambique scored again barely three minutes after their last goal.
Clesio Bauque, who came on as a half-time substitute, got through the defense and secured a 2-1 lead this time.
Despite their efforts, the Mambas were unable to hold on to their advantage and record a remarkable victory, as Salah remained collected and scored a game-winning goal at the end. Later in the game, Ghana and Cape Verde will square off in the same stadium.
