File Photo: Egypt's forward Mohamed Salah is marked by South Africa's midfielder Dean Furman (R) during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) Round of 16 football match between Egypt and South Africa at the Cairo International Stadium in the Egyptian Capital. AFP
South Africa evoked bitter memories for Egypt in their recent encounter, eliminating the Pharaohs from the 2019 AFCON finals' round of 16 with a narrow 1-0 victory at Cairo International Stadium.
The seven-time African champions face a significant challenge against the Bafana Bafana, having clashed in official matches on five occasions, including AFCON finals and qualifiers. Egypt emerged victorious twice, South Africa secured two wins, and one match ended in a draw.
Egypt will commence their campaign in the prestigious tournament against Zimbabwe in Agadir, Morocco. Subsequently, they will meet South Africa in the second round before concluding the group stage fixtures against Angola.
The 2025 AFCON, scheduled from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, presents the most significant challenge for coach Hossam Hassan since his appointment in February 2024.
"It is a strong group. All the African teams have progressed a lot as we have all seen recently. This edition will be very tough as there are formidable opponents. We have a strong team led by Mohamed Salah, one of the world's best players, along with Omar Marmoush, Mostafa Mohamed, and Trezeguet. With all due respect to the other teams, our goal is to clinch the title," Hassan expressed before the draw ceremony.
In Group A, hosts Morocco lead the pack, joined by Mali, Zambia, and Comoros.
Group F features a marquee clash between five-time champions Cameroon and defending titleholders Cote d'Ivoire.
Algeria, also two-time AFCON champions, find themselves in Group E alongside Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, and Sudan.
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