The Siege of Agadir: Egypt Ousts Defending Champions in a Five-Goal Quarter-Final Thriller

Egypt secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over defending champions Ivory Coast on Saturday to clinch a 2025 AFCON semi-final berth. Contested at Agadir, the Pharaohs delivered a clinical performance to eliminate the holders in a high-stakes duel.

Omar Marmoush ignited the Pharaohs after four minutes, finishing an Emam Ashour through ball. Rami Rabia doubled the lead with a 32nd-minute header from a Mohamed Salah corner. Though an Ahmed Fatouh own goal gave the Elephants a lifeline, Salah restored the cushion in the 52nd minute. This strike was Salah’s 11th tournament goal, equaling the record of coach Hossam Hassan.

Guela Doue’s 73rd-minute strike set up a frantic finish, but Mohamed El Shenawy’s reflex saves ensured Egypt’s progression. The Pharaohs now prepare for a semi-final showdown against Senegal on Wednesday.