Salah spot-kick sends 10-man Egypt through at AFCON

Mohamed Salah’s penalty was enough to send Egypt into the knockout stage of the Africa Cup of Nations after a 1-0 win over South Africa in Agadir, ending Bafana Bafana’s 12-game unbeaten run. Both sides knew victory would seal qualification, and the opening exchanges were tense and cautious.

Egypt’s first real chance came after 22 minutes when Omar Marmoush’s free-kick drifted just wide. South Africa replied through Lyle Foster, but his effort lacked power and was saved easily. The breakthrough arrived before half-time when Khuliso Mudau conceded a penalty, allowing Salah to fire down the middle.

Drama followed as Mohamed Hany was sent off for a second booking. After the break, South Africa dominated possession but struggled to create chances. Foster set up Aubrey Modiba, yet Mohamed El Shenawy denied him. Egypt progressed.