Johnson Progress.

Adra Stadium witnessed a dramatic Group B clash of the Africa Cup of Nations on Monday night as the Zimbabwean Warriors succumbed 2-1 to the Egyptian Pharaohs.

The match, packed with twists, began with Zimbabwe striking early as Prince Dube netted a brilliant 20th‑minute goal, turning past his marker and firing straight into the net.

ZIFA’s post‑match briefing highlighted Dube’s “clinical finish” that sent the Zimbabwean side into halftime with a 1‑0 lead.

Zimbabwe entered the break confident after the early strike, but Egypt’s relentless pressure in the second half turned the tide.

Egypt equalised on 64 minutes through Omar Marmoush, who slotted home a precise low shot.

“We kept a good mindset and finished the match strongly,” Marmoush said after the game.

Egypt’s comeback culminated in stoppage time when Mohamed Salah pounced in the 90+1 minute to seal a 2‑1 win.

SuperSport quoted Salah’s decisive finish as a “late strike that kept Egypt alive in Group B.”

The result lifts Egypt alongside South Africa, who earlier defeated Angola 2‑1 in Marrakech.

In the parallel fixture, South Africa edged Angola 2‑1 at Marrakech’s stadium.

The victory places South Africa level on points with Egypt, both sitting at three points, while Zimbabwe and Angola remain point‑less.

Analysts note Egypt’s statistical edge over Zimbabwe unbeaten in ten meetings (seven wins, three draws) and a strong AFCON record where they’ve won eight of fourteen encounters.

Zimbabwe, making their sixth AFCON appearance, have never advanced beyond the group stage and remain winless this edition.

Egypt coach Hossam Hassan remarked, “We created many chances without scoring early, but in the end everything went well.”

Zimbabwe’s Prince Dube added, “We showed character leading at halftime, but Egypt’s experience proved decisive.”

With Egypt facing South Africa and Zimbabwe meeting Angola in upcoming fixtures, both teams will look to capitalize on momentum.

Egypt’s depth, highlighted by Premier League stars Salah and Marmoush, contrasts Zimbabwe’s resilient but limited attack, underscoring a tight Group B battle ahead.