Salah closer to AFCON glory as Egypt dethrone champions Ivory Coast

Mohamed Salah edged closer to his elusive Africa Cup of Nations dream as Egypt defeated holders Ivory Coast in Agadir. Early goals from Omar Marmoush and Ramy Rabia established control, though an Ahmed Aboul-Fetouh own goal gave the Elephants hope before halftime. Shortly after the break, Salah restored the cushion, expertly converting Emam Ashour’s cross. Guela Doue reduced the deficit late on, but the Pharaohs held firm.

This victory confirms Egypt’s historical dominance, marking their eleventh win over the Ivorians. Consequently, Ivory Coast became the eighth consecutive champion to fail their title defense. For Salah, now 33, this tournament offers vital redemption following recent Liverpool controversies. Having won every major club honor, the Egyptian captain desperately seeks his first continental trophy. Egypt will now face Senegal in the semi-finals in Tangiers, with the winner meeting Morocco or Nigeria, putting Salah two games away from finally realizing his long-time international ambition.