When Mohamed Salah lines up against Ronwen Williams at the Grande Stade d'Agadir this Boxing Day, the stakes couldn't be higher. Egypt and South Africa, both victorious in their tournament openers, clash in what many consider the most anticipated match of AFCON 2025's group stage. But can the seven-time champions exorcise the ghost of 2019?
The tactical context
Egypt's opening game against Zimbabwe revealed both their strengths and vulnerabilities. Hossam Hassan's side dominated possession with 77.5% but struggled to break down a well-organized defense. It took Omar Marmoush's 63rd-minute equalizer and Salah's stoppage-time winner to avoid embarrassment.
South Africa, by contrast, showed ruthless efficiency. Hugo Broos's 4-3-3 system allowed Oswin Appollis to exploit spaces on the wing, while Lyle Foster's spectacular winner demonstrated their ability to score from distance when the opportunity arises.
Key tactical matchups to watch
The battle between Salah cutting inside from the right and South Africa's left-back Khuliso Mudau could define the game. In Egypt's opener, Salah created six chances—more than any other player—but netted with his only shot on target. Expect him to be more clinical this time.
In midfield, Teboho Mokoena's ability to break up play and transition quickly will be crucial against Egypt's technically gifted playmakers. If South Africa can win the midfield battle, they can catch the Pharaohs on the break.
Historical context weighs heavy
South Africa have a remarkable recent record against Egypt, unbeaten in their last six encounters with four wins and two draws. Their most famous victory came at AFCON 2019 in the round of 16, when Thembinkosi Lorch scored in the 85th minute to eliminate the hosts.
Several current squad members featured in that game: Salah, Trezeguet, and Mohamed El Shenawy for Egypt; Williams for South Africa. The memory still stings for the Egyptians, and revenge will be a powerful motivator.
Predicted tactical approach
Egypt will likely maintain their patient, possession-based approach but with more urgency in the final third. Hassan may deploy Marmoush and Salah closer together to create overloads on the right side.
South Africa will sit deeper than against Angola, inviting pressure before unleashing quick counter-attacks through Appollis and Percy Tau. Broos knows that giving Egypt too much space is dangerous, but so is allowing them to settle into their rhythm.
The verdict
This match has 1-1 draw written all over it. Egypt's superior individual quality will eventually find a way through, but South Africa's tactical discipline and counter-attacking threat make them dangerous opponents. Both teams should remain unbeaten and battle for top spot on the final matchday.
However, if one team is to edge it, Egypt's desperation to avenge 2019 and their home-continent advantage could prove decisive. A narrow 2-1 Pharaohs victory wouldn't surprise, but Broos's Bafana Bafana won't make it easy.