The 27-year-old forward, who had waited six years for a breakthrough, struck in the 31st minute to put Egypt ahead. However, Ryan Mendes leveled for the hosts from the penalty spot in the 63rd minute.

The result keeps Egypt, already qualified for the tournament, atop Group C with 13 points. Cape Verde, with only four points, are out of contention for a spot in next year’s finals in Morocco.

Taher, a standout performer for Ahly this season, completed his first full 90 minutes for the national team. His previous appearances totaled just six minutes across two games – against Tunisia in 2018 and Belgium in 2022.

After being linked with a move away from Ahly in the summer, Taher revived his form, contributing five goals and an assist in seven matches this season.

His resurgence earned him a recall from coach Hossam Hassan, who gave him his first starting role with Egypt, compensating for the absence of European-based stars Mohamed Salah, Omar Marmoush, and Mahmoud Trezeguet.

Egypt controlled the game in the first half, with Mohamed Hamdy providing a precise pass to Taher, who expertly fired into the roof of the net from just outside the box. Ibrahim Adel and Osama Faisal missed chances to double the lead before halftime.

Cape Verde raised their intensity in the second half, forcing Egypt into a more defensive stance. Mendes equalized from the penalty spot after Mahmoud Saber’s foul in the box.

Despite opportunities on the counter-attack, Egypt couldn’t capitalize, with Mostafa Mohamed and Mostafa Fathy missing late chances. The draw maintained Egypt's unbeaten record in the qualifiers.

The Pharaohs will conclude their Group C campaign on Tuesday when they host Botswana in Cairo.

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