South Africa and Egypt played to a hard-fought 1-1 draw during the first leg of their CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025 qualifier at Orlando Stadium on March 2, 2025. The match showcased intense competition and highlighted the stakes involved for both teams as they vie for qualification to the prestigious tournament.
Egypt, known as the Pharaohs, started the match with a strategic focus on defensive stability, which left them less aggressive going forward. Both teams struggled to find rhythm early on, resulting in a first half devoid of goals, leading to mixed reactions from fans. The hosts attempted to apply pressure, but it was Egypt who would eventually find the net first.
Winger Mohamed Antar broke the deadlock in the 66th minute with a well-placed long-range shot, showcasing his skill and precision to give Egypt the lead. This goal not only provided the visitors with valuable momentum but also secured them an important away goal as they pursue qualification for CHAN 2025.
Following Egypt's lead, South Africa remained undeterred. Famed for their resilience, Bafana Bafana launched multiple attacks, with midfielder Jamie Webber playing a pivotal role. Just 14 minutes after Antar’s goal, Webber struck back for South Africa with his own remarkable long-range effort, which found the top corner of the net. His strike not only leveled the match but also ensured the contest stayed balanced heading to the second leg.
The match was exciting and competitive, with key players from both sides showcasing their skills. Early on, South Africa's Monnapule Saleng tested Egyptian goalkeeper Mahmoud Abou El-Saoud with a long-range attempt, which set the tone for their attacking intent. Despite their aggression, South Africa struggled to find the back of the net until Webber’s equalizer, reflecting the ups and downs of the match.
With the match ending 1-1, Egypt is now poised well for the return leg scheduled for March 9, 2025, at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium, where they will host South Africa. The away goal advantage places Egypt in a strong position, as they will advance to the final qualifying round if they manage to secure at least a goalless draw or win the match.
The stakes couldn't be higher for both teams, as the aggregate winner will progress to the next phase, facing either Malawi or Comoros. Malawi had impressed earlier on the same day with their 2-0 victory over Comoros, which sets them up advantageously for their return leg on March 8, 2025.
The CHAN 2025 tournament is set to be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania from August 2 to August 30, making qualification even more pressing for both South Africa and Egypt.
Fans from both nations are eagerly anticipating the second leg as each team aims for glory. After the draw, Egypt's coach expressed hope and confidence about the upcoming match, stating, "We are happy with the away goal, but we know the hardest part is yet to come. We need to perform well at home and secure our spot at CHAN 2025."
South Africa’s coach shared his optimism as well, noting, "The team showed great spirit coming back to equalize. We will use the momentum from this match to push harder at home. Our goal is clear: to qualify for CHAN 2025 and make our country proud."
With everything to play for, the return matches promise to be thrilling and unpredictable, leaving fans and analysts alike speculating about the outcomes. For Egypt, focusing on defensive stability and counter-attacking could be key strategies to secure progression, whereas South Africa must capitalize on their attacking prowess and build on the confidence from their spirited performance.
The countdown is on to the second leg as both teams prepare for the moments which could define their futures at this championship level, underscoring the importance of every match-leading them one step closer to the dream of participating at CHAN 2025.