Matchday one results confirmed Egypt and South Africa as the frontrunners in Group B, and this meeting could go a long way in shaping the knockout-stage path, with the group winner likely rewarded with a more favourable Round of 16 tie, Softfootball reports
Egypt entered the tournament as one of the outright favourites to lift the AFCON trophy in mid-January, and they justified that billing despite a nervy start against Zimbabwe. The Pharaohs were forced to come from behind after conceding first, but goals from Omar Marmoush and a late winner from Mohamed Salah eventually sealed a 2-1 victory.
That result not only highlighted their attacking depth, but also ensured Egypt quickly put behind them the disappointment of their winless 2023 AFCON campaign.
