The reigning champions, Egypt, secured their place in the Round of 16 at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast with a 2-2 draw against Cape Verde in the final match of Group B.
Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet (50′) and Mohamed Mostafa (90+3′) found the net for Egypt, while Gelson Tavares (45+1′) and Brian Texeira (90+9′) scored for Cape Verde in a dramatic encounter.
The draw meant Egypt finished second in the group standings with 3 points, just one point ahead of both Ghana and Mozambique, who are positioned third and fourth, respectively.
Cape Verde, who had already secured their place in the knockout stages after the previous round, retained their lead in the group with 7 points.
In a match that showcased the resilience and determination of both teams, Egypt fought hard to secure their passage to the next round.
Trezeguet’s goal in the 50th minute provided hope, but Cape Verde responded with an equalizer from Tavares just before halftime.
As the game reached its closing moments, Mohamed Mostafa’s injury-time goal sparked elation for Egypt.
However, Cape Verde’s Texeira stunned the Egyptians with a late equalizer in the ninth minute of added time, ensuring both teams share the points.
Despite the draw, Egypt’s progress to the Round of 16 is a testament to their pedigree in African football, having won the AFCON title seven times.
Football enthusiasts are now eagerly anticipating the knockout stages, where Egypt will look to defend their championship against formidable opponents in the quest for continental glory.
