Egypt wrapped up their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) group-stage campaign as Group B winners following a 0-0 draw with Angola at Stade Adrar on Monday evening.
The Pharaohs had already secured qualification for the Round of 16 heading into the final fixture and finished top of the group, while Angola bowed out after ending the group stage third with just two points from three matches.
With top spot assured, Egypt made wholesale changes to their starting XI, leaving Mohamed Salah and Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush unused on the bench. The seven-time champions, who lacked their usual cutting edge, struggled to create clear chances in Agadir.
Angola, who needed a win to boost their qualification hopes, must now wait anxiously to see whether their two-point haul is enough to advance as one of the four best third-placed teams across the six groups.
Benin, Sudan and Mozambique have already secured at least three points in their respective groups, leaving Angola’s prospects uncertain.
Read Also: AFCON 2025: Morocco cruise past Zambia to seal Group A top spot
The Palancas Negras came closest to breaking the deadlock early in the second half when winger Fredy struck the outside of the post. Egypt responded shortly afterwards through Zizo—one of three halftime substitutes—whose effort from inside the box forced a fingertip save from goalkeeper Hugo Marques.
Salah and Marmoush had both scored in Egypt’s 2-1 comeback victory over Zimbabwe in their opening match, before Salah’s penalty sealed a 1-0 win against South Africa in their second group outing.
Egypt will remain in Agadir for their Round of 16 clash next Monday (16:00 GMT), where they will face a third-placed team from Group A, C or D. Their opponents will be confirmed once the group stage concludes on Wednesday.
In the other Group B fixture, South Africa’s dramatic 3-2 win over Zimbabwe ensured Bafana Bafana qualified automatically, finishing with four points and safely ahead of Angola.
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