Bafana Bafana enjoyed early possession and intent inside the opening five minutes, with Lyle Foster’s teasing cross-cum-shot.
The Pharaohs’ best early chance came when Mohamed Hany powered past his marker and flashed a ball across the face of goal, with Mohamed Salah just unable to apply the finish.
AFCON 2025: EGYPT 1-0 SOUTH AFRICA
Salah remained Egypt’s main danger. A threatening free-kick tested South Africa’s defensive line, which stood firm, while Marmoush dragged another set-piece wide in the 21st minute.
Bafana Bafana came closest in the first half on 28 minutes when Foster pounced on a loose ball, only to see his effort saved.
The decisive moment arrived late in the half when VAR awarded Egypt a penalty after Mudau’s hand made contact with Salah’s face.
Salah converted confidently in the 44th minute for a 1-0 lead. Moments later, Egypt were reduced to 10 men when Hany picked up a second yellow card in injury time.
SECOND HALF
Hugo Broos responded at the break, introducing Sipho Mbule for Mbatha.
Bafana Bafana dominated the opening stages of the second half. They pinned Egypt back, launching wave after wave of attacks and forcing three early corners.
Despite the pressure, Egypt goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy stood firm, while Williams produced a vital low save on 59 minutes to deny Ashour and keep Bafana Bafana in the contest.
South Africa maintained control well past the hour mark but struggled to unlock a stubborn Egyptian defence.
Relebohile Mofokeng replaced Oswin Appollis as South Africa searched for a spark, and chances followed. Mudau fired a powerful low shot that El Shenawy pushed away, while VAR waved off strong appeals for a Bafana penalty for handball.
In stoppage time, El Shenawy produced another superb save to claw away a header, before Aubrey Modiba flashed the final chance inches wide.
The final whistle confirmed a hard-fought 1-0 win for Egypt, who move to the top of Group B on six points.
HOW BAFANA BAFANA LINED-UP
Goalkeeper: Ronwen William, right-back: Khuliso Mudau, right central defender: Siyabonga Ngezana, left central defender: Mbekezeli Mbokazi, left-back: Aubrey Modiba, defensive midfielder: Sphephelo Sithole, central midfielder: Teboho Mokoena, central midfielder: Thalente Mbatha, right-winger: Tshepang Moremi, left winger: Oswin Appollis, striker: Lyle Foster.
Bafana Bafana sit second on three points, with their final group match against Zimbabwe set for 29 December.
Also read: Where are Bafana Bafana on the current CAF rankings?
