In a thrilling opening match of the Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt managed to salvage a draw against Mozambique with a late penalty. Mohamed Salah, the star forward, converted the spot-kick in the seventh minute of stoppage time to secure a 2-2 draw for 'The Pharaohs.'
The game started in a blistering fashion as Salah quickly set up Mostafa Mohamed, who fired Egypt into the lead in just the second minute. It seemed like Egypt would dominate the match from there, but Mozambique had other plans. Rather than being disheartened, Mozambique pushed forward in search of an equalizer.
Salah continued to shine for Egypt, orchestrating the team's attacks with his precise passes. He provided Mohamed with another opportunity, but the Mozambique goalkeeper, Ernan Siluane, made an excellent save. Trézéguet came close to doubling Egypt's lead, hitting the post with a well-struck shot. However, it was Mozambique who eventually found the back of the net.
In the 55th minute, Mozambique winger Witi scored a header from Domingos' cross, sending the majority of fans inside the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium into rapturous celebration. Just three minutes later, Clésio Baúque fired Mozambique in front, stunning the Egyptian team and fans alike.
As tension built up, there were audible boos when seven minutes of injury time were announced. The Mozambique supporters were in full voice, chanting their team's name in anticipation of a historic victory. However, Salah remained calm under pressure.
In the dying moments of the match, Domingos was penalized for a foul on Mostafa Mohamed after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review. Salah stepped up to take the penalty and showed no nerves as he calmly slotted the ball into the net. The goal spared Egypt's embarrassment and ensured they walked away with a valuable point.
Meanwhile, in another Group B fixture, Nigeria was held to a 1-1 draw by Equatorial Guinea. Victor Osimhen scored the equalizer for the 'Super Eagles' after Iban Salvador had given Equatorial Guinea the lead in the 36th minute. Despite numerous chances, Nigeria couldn't find the winning goal.
Nigeria's coach, José Peseiro, will be feeling the pressure as his team now faces a crucial Group A game against the host nation, Ivory Coast. Ivory Coast started their campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over Guinea-Bissau.
The Africa Cup of Nations has started with immense excitement and unpredictability. As the tournament progresses, the teams will be aiming to secure their place in football history by lifting the prestigious title.
