Egypt secured a crucial 1-1 draw against South Africa in the first leg of their African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 qualifier, setting up a decisive return fixture in Cairo.
The match, played on Sunday night at Free State Stadium, saw both teams battling for an early advantage in their bid to progress to the next round.
Egypt broke the deadlock in the 68th minute when Mohamed Hassan Hashem Abdelaal capitalized on a well-worked attacking move to give the Pharaohs the lead.
However, South Africa responded with determination, and their persistence paid off in the 79th minute when Jamie Webber found the back of the net, ensuring the contest remained evenly poised ahead of the second leg.
A tense battle in Bloemfontein
From the outset, both sides showed a clear intent to take control of the game.
Egypt, known for their disciplined defensive structure, frustrated the South Africans, limiting their attacking opportunities.
The hosts, meanwhile, relied on their pace and direct play to try and break through the Egyptian backline.
The breakthrough finally came midway through the second half when Abdelaal finished a well-executed move to put Egypt ahead.
The goal sparked an immediate response from the home team, with South Africa pushing forward in search of an equalizer.
Their efforts were rewarded just over 10 minutes later when Webber struck to level the score.
The final moments of the match saw both teams pressing for a winner, but neither could find a decisive goal, leaving the tie finely balanced heading into the return leg.
Crucial second leg awaits in Cairo
The two sides will meet again in Egypt on March 6, 2025, with a place in the second round of CHAN 2024 qualifiers at stake.
The winner of the tie will advance to the next phase of the competition, scheduled to take place in May 2025.
Egypt will look to capitalize on home advantage, while South Africa will aim to secure a positive result on the road to keep their qualification hopes alive.
With everything still to play for, the return leg promises to be a fiercely contested encounter.
Here is that wonder strike from Webber!!!! Tjoe!#BafanaPride pic.twitter.com/4Kpj8D7l6D
— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) March 2, 2025
