Tinotenda Hove – Zimbabwe suffered late heartbreak after going down 2–1 to Egypt in a tightly contested 2025 AFCON Group B clash, despite delivering a disciplined and spirited performance.

The Warriors stunned the Pharaohs in the 20th minute when Prince Dube struck against the run of play, showing great composure inside the box to finish clinically from a well-weighted Emmanuel Jalai cross.

Egypt responded by asserting control of possession, with Omar Marmoush proving a constant threat in attack. However, Zimbabwe stood firm at the back, as Gerald Takwara put in a commanding defensive shift marked by timely blocks and interceptions, while goalkeeper Washington Arubi produced a series of fine saves to keep the Egyptians at bay.

Jonah Fabisch also caught the eye in midfield, breaking up play and driving the Warriors forward until the interval.

After the break, Zimbabwe continued to defend resolutely, but sustained pressure eventually told in the 64th minute when Marmoush found the equaliser for Egypt.

Just as the Warriors looked set to earn a valuable point, Mohamed Salah struck deep into stoppage time to snatch victory for the Pharaohs, condemning Zimbabwe to a painful late defeat.

The result extended Egypt’s dominance over Zimbabwe and saw the Pharaohs move level on points with Group B leaders South Africa, who edged Angola 2–1 in the other match played on Monday.