All control, no reward: Egypt trail Zimbabwe at the break in AFCON 2025 opener

AFCON 22 December 2025 at 15:58

Khaled Hegazy

News Editor

22.12.25 FT AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations

Egypt

2

:

Zimbabwe

1

Egypt’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 campaign suffered unexpected early setback on Monday night as Zimbabwe headed into the break with shock 1-0 lead despite being largely outplayed by dominant Pharaohs side.

Hossam Hassan’s men controlled the tempo, monopolised possession and applied sustained pressure, yet single lapse proved costly.

Prince Dube punished Egypt in the 20 minute scoring against the run of play to hand Zimbabwe surprise advantage in their Group B opener.

Egypt began on the front foot, driven by Mohamed Salah’s movement and creativity.. Liverpool star created the clearest early opening when his teasing cross found Mahmoud Hassan “Trezeguet” whose header forced sharp save from Zimbabwe’s goalkeeper.

The Pharaohs continued to probe pinning Zimbabwe deep in their own half but struggled to convert territorial dominance into breakthrough.

After weathering Egypt’s early storm, Zimbabwe gradually settled and capitalised on their first real opening. Prince Dube struck in the 20th minute flipping the script and stunning the pre-tournament favourites.

Key first half moments

• 6’ Salah creates Egypt’s best early chance; Trezeguet’s header is denied
• 7’ Washington Navaya booked as midfield battles intensify
• 20’ GOAL (Zimbabwe): Prince Dube strikes against the run of play
• 45’+1 Egypt push late winning corner & testing from distance

First Half Stats: Control without reward

The numbers reflect Egypt’s dominance and their frustration.

• Possession: Egypt 78.2% – 21.8% Zimbabwe
• Total shots: Egypt 11 – 5 Zimbabwe
• Shots on target: Egypt 3 – 2 Zimbabwe
• Corners: Egypt 4 – 3 Zimbabwe

Related teams and leagues

Egypt

Zimbabwe

AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations