Egypt secured their place in the semifinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a thrilling 3-2 victory over defending champions Ivory Coast in the quarterfinal clash played on January 10, 2026, at the Stade Adrar in Agadir, Morocco.
The Pharaohs, led by captain Mohamed Salah, produced a dominant performance to eliminate the title holders and set up a highly anticipated semifinal showdown against Senegal. The match was packed with drama from start to finish, showcasing Egypt’s clinical finishing and resilience under pressure.
Egypt struck early when Omar Marmoush opened the scoring in just the 4th minute, giving the seven-time champions a perfect start. They doubled their lead around the half-hour mark through a beautifully executed header from defender Rami Rabia, who rose highest at the back post to make it 2-0.
Just before halftime, Ivory Coast pulled one back courtesy of an own goal by Egypt’s Ahmed Fatouh, who unfortunately turned a free-kick into his own net, reducing the deficit to 2-1 at the break.
The second half saw Egypt restore their two-goal cushion shortly after the restart, as Salah latched onto a precise cross from Emam Ashour and slotted home calmly to make it 3-1 in the 52nd minute. His goal proved decisive, marking his fourth of the tournament and underscoring his pivotal role in the Pharaohs’ campaign.
Ivory Coast refused to surrender and mounted a spirited late fightback, with Guela Doué pulling one back in the 73rd minute through a clever improvised finish, setting up a tense finale at 3-2.
Despite sustained pressure and plenty of possession from the Elephants, Egypt’s defense held firm in the closing stages, soaking up attacks and seeing out the victory to book their spot in the last four.
This result marks a significant scalp for coach Hossam Hassan’s side, as they knocked out the reigning champions and continued their quest for an eighth AFCON title — extending their record as the continent’s most successful nation.
Egypt will now face Senegal in Tangier on January 14, renewing a fierce rivalry that includes the 2021 final, where the Lions of Teranga claimed the crown.
Meanwhile, the win caps a memorable quarterfinal day, with Nigeria also advancing earlier to set up their own semifinal against hosts Morocco. With big names like Salah still in contention, the 2025 AFCON promises more excitement as it heads toward the business end.