Egypt Finish Top of Group B After Stalemate with Angola
Egypt secured their place as winners of Group B in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) following a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Angola at the Stade Adrar on Monday night. While the point was enough for the Pharaohs to maintain their unbeaten run, it spelled the end of the road for a resilient Angola side, who exit the competition after finishing third in the group.
Tactical Rotations and a Scrappy Start
Having already qualified for the knockout stages prior to kick-off, Egypt coach Hossam Hassan Hussein opted for a rotated lineup. Most notably, star forwards Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush were left on the bench to rest for the Round of 16.
The first half was a physical, fragmented affair. Angola, needing a victory and a favorable result in the simultaneous South Africa vs. Zimbabwe match, showed more early intent. Chico Banza and Antonio Maestro both had sights of goal but failed to test Egyptian goalkeeper Mohamed Oufa Shobeir significantly.
Egypt’s best chance of the opening period fell to Mostafa Mohamed, whose header from a tight angle drifted just wide of the post.
Angola Hit the Woodwork
The intensity increased after the break as the “Palancas Negras” grew desperate for a breakthrough. Just minutes into the second half, Angola captain Fredy came inches away from an opener, striking the upright with a brilliantly struck free-kick that left the Egyptian defense rooted to the spot.
Egypt responded by introducing Zizo and Hamdi Fathy, which provided more control in midfield. Zizo forced a superb fingertip save from Hugo Marques in the 59th minute, while Fathy saw a late long-range effort graze the top of the crossbar.
Group B Final Standings
Despite a frantic final ten minutes where Angola pushed everyone forward—including a late penalty appeal that was waved away by the referee—the Egyptian defense remained compact to see out the draw.
What’s Next?
Egypt now looks ahead to the Round of 16, where they will face one of the best third-placed teams. With Salah and Marmoush refreshed, the seven-time champions remain one of the favorites to lift the trophy. For Angola, a tournament that showed flashes of promise ends in disappointment as they fail to replicate their quarter-final run from previous years.
