Egypt seal AFCON qualification

Egypt's Muhamed Salah (L) celebrates a goal with Muhamed Trezguet against Guinea | Photo Credit: CAF Media

AFCON 2023 Egypt seal AFCON qualification

Shafic Kiyaga 08:56 - 15.06.2023

Egypt's qualification makes them the seventh nation to confirm their spot in the AFCON, joining the likes of Senegal, Algeria, Morocco, South Africa, Tunisia, and Burkina Faso.

Mahmoud 'Trezeguet' Ahmed was the hero for Egypt as they secured their qualification for the 2023 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a thrilling 2-1 come-from-behind victory over Guinea on Wednesday.

The victory saw Egypt move to 12 points after five rounds of matches, and have an unassailable lead of nine points to the third placed team with one round of qualification matches left to play.

Egypt's qualification makes them the seventh nation to confirm their spot in the AFCON, joining the likes of Senegal, Algeria, Morocco, South Africa, Tunisia, and Burkina Faso.

Guinea remains second with nine points and will only need a draw in the final qualification match in September to earn a ticket to the final tournament.

Trezeguet scored a crucial goal and provided an assist in a memorable performance that propelled Egypt to the highly anticipated tournament.

Guinea took the lead in the 26th minute when Serhou Guirassy found the back of the net with a close-range finish, capitalizing on a well-executed team move.

Egypt struggled to find their rhythm initially, with Guinea dominating possession and dictating the flow of the game.

However, just before halftime, Trezeguet ignited the Egyptian comeback, finding the back of the net off a sleek through ball from Mohamed Salah.

As the game intensified after the break, Guinea continued to create chances. Naby Keita and Illaix Moriba had opportunities to restore Guinea's lead, but their efforts were either saved by the Egyptian goalkeeper or missed the target.

Gradually, Egypt regained control of the match and increased the tempo of their attacks. Their perseverance paid off in the 79th minute when Mostafa Mohamed capitalized on a delightful cutback from Trezeguet.

Despite Guinea's efforts to find an equalizer, Egypt's defence remained resolute and successfully preserved their one-goal advantage.

The final whistle sparked scenes of joy and relief among the Egyptian players and coaching staff, as they celebrated their qualification for the upcoming tournament.