Egypt’s star striker Mohamed Salah scored a dramatic injury-time penalty to salvage a 2-2 draw against Mozambique in their opening match of the Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday.
The Liverpool forward kept his cool to slot home from the spot after a VAR review confirmed a foul by Mozambique defender Domingos Macandza in the box.
Salah’s goal denied Mozambique a historic first win at the continental tournament after they had stunned the seven-time champions with two quick goals in the second half.
Egypt, who are the most successful team in the history of the competition, had taken an early lead in the second minute through Mostafa Mohamed, who pounced on a loose ball in the area after Salah had misfired.
The Pharaohs dominated the first half and came close to doubling their advantage when Trezeguet hit the post, but they were made to pay for their wastefulness after the break.
Mozambique, who is ranked 108th in the world by FIFA, leveled the score in the 55th minute when Witi headed in a cross from Macandza.
Three minutes later, they completed a stunning turnaround when Clesio Bauque broke free from the Egypt defense and slotted past goalkeeper Mohamed El Shennawy.
Egypt, who are coached by former Valencia boss Hossam El Badry, threw everything forward in search of an equalizer but were frustrated by a resilient Mozambique defense and some fine saves by Hernani Siluane.
It looked like Mozambique, who are making their fifth appearance at the Cup of Nations, would hold on for a historic victory, but their dreams were shattered in the seventh minute of added time when Salah converted the penalty.
The result leaves both teams with one point in Group B, which also includes Ghana and Cape Verde. Egypt will face Ghana on Thursday, while Mozambique will take on Cape Verde on Friday.
Egypt are aiming to win their eighth title and their first since 2010, when they beat Ghana 1-0 in the final in Angola.
Mozambique, who are coached by former Portugal international Abel Xavier, are hoping to advance from the group stage for the first time in their history.
The Africa Cup of Nations, which was postponed from 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic, is being held in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6.
The tournament features 24 teams divided into six groups of four, with the top two from each group and the four best third-placed teams qualifying for the knockout stage.
The final will be played at the Japoma Stadium in Douala on February 6.
Source: Reuters
