In a thrilling quarterfinal match held in Agadir, Egypt secured their spot in the semifinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations by overcoming the defending champions, Ivory Coast, with a 3-2 victory. The encounter was marked by Egypt’s early dominance and a spirited comeback attempt by the Ivorians.

The Pharaohs quickly took the lead just four minutes into the game. Hamdy Fathy showcased his tenacity by winning the ball in midfield and setting up Emam Ashour. Ashour’s perfectly timed through ball found Omar Marmoush, who made a skillful run behind the defense and slotted the ball into the bottom-right corner with precision.

Fast start gives Egypt early control

Egypt continued their momentum and doubled their lead in the 32nd minute. Mohamed Salah, known for his set-piece prowess, delivered a corner that was expertly headed back across goal by Ramy Rabia, nestling the ball into the net and putting Egypt in a commanding position.

Despite Ivory Coast’s efforts to mount a comeback, including a late rally, Egypt displayed resilience and poise to maintain their lead, ultimately ending the reigning champions’ title defense and advancing to the next stage of the prestigious tournament.

Egypt doubled their advantage in the 32nd minute from a corner. Mohamed Salah’s delivery was met by Ramy Rabia at the back post, and the defender headed the ball back across goal and into the net to put Egypt firmly in control.

Ivory Coast respond before the break

The Elephants reduced the deficit just before half-time through a set piece. Diomande delivered a dangerous free-kick from the left, Odilon Kossounou flicked it on, and the ball ricocheted off Ahmed El Fotouh before crossing the line to make it 2-1 at the interval.

Salah leads second-half charge

Egypt restored their two-goal cushion shortly after the restart with a quick counter-attack.

Rabia played a long ball forward to Ashour, who produced a precise trivela pass across the box for Salah. The captain finished confidently into the bottom-left corner to make it 3-1.

Ivory Coast continued to push and pulled another goal back in the 73rd minute. A corner caused chaos in the Egyptian box, substitute Krasso headed the ball back into danger, and Guela Doué eventually bundled it home to set up a tense finale.

Despite late pressure, Egypt defended resolutely to preserve their lead and secure progression.

The result eliminates the defending champions and sends Egypt into a semifinal showdown against Senegal on Wednesday, January 14.