The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has burst into life with goals, drama and late twists, as early contenders began to separate themselves from the pack.
The tournament got underway on Sunday, December 21, when hosts Morocco eased past the Comoros with a 2-0 victory, setting the tone. Three more matches followed on Monday, December 22, producing two wins and a draw in an eventful AFCON 2025 Matchday 2.
Egypt launched their AFCON campaign with a tense 2-1 win over Zimbabwe, thanks to a stoppage-time strike from their talisman, Mohamed Salah.
Zimbabwe stunned the seven-time champions in Agadir when Prince Dube put them ahead in the 20th minute, calmly controlling Emmanuel Jalai’s cross before slotting home. Egypt pressed for a response and finally found it just after the hour mark, as Omar Marmoush cut in from the left and smashed a fierce effort into the roof of the net.
The Pharaohs wasted chances to take control, with substitute Zizo heading over from close range, but their persistence paid off in added time. Salah showed sharp control inside the box before turning smartly and beating Washington Arubi to seal a dramatic opening win.
The result extended Egypt’s strong AFCON record. They are now unbeaten in their last 11 matches at the tournament and have won all three of their AFCON meetings with Zimbabwe. Despite a testing club season with Liverpool, Salah once again proved decisive, leading his side for shots and chances created.
South Africa also began on a positive note, claiming a hard-earned 2-1 victory over Angola in Marrakesh.
Hugo Broos’ men started brightly and were rewarded in the 21st minute when Oswin Appollis drove into the area and drilled a low finish into the corner. Angola responded with purpose and drew level before the break, as Show slid in to convert Fredy’s free-kick on the occasion of his 50th international appearance.
The second half was played at a breathless pace. South Africa saw a goal ruled out by VAR, struck the crossbar and pushed relentlessly for a winner. It finally arrived in the 79th minute, when Lyle Foster curled a superb effort past Hugo Marques to spark celebrations among the Bafana Bafana supporters.
The Burnley forward endured a frustrating evening but produced a moment of real quality when it mattered most. South Africa will now turn its attention to a heavyweight clash with Egypt on Boxing Day, while Angola regroups ahead of its meeting with Zimbabwe.
Earlier in the day, Mali and Zambia played out a gripping 1-1 draw in their AFCON 2025.
Naija News reports that Mali were left to rue missed opportunities after El Bilal Touré failed to convert a first-half penalty. They eventually broke the deadlock in the 61st minute when Lassine Sinayoko reacted quickest to a rebound and fired home.
Just as Mali looked set for all three points, Zambia struck in the second minute of stoppage time. Patson Daka pounced late to rescue a point and keep his side firmly in contention.
Below are AFCON 2025 matches that will go down today, December 23:
DR Congo Vs Benin Republic
1:30 p.m.
Senegal Vs Botswana
4 p.m.
Nigeria Vs Tanzania
6:30 p.m.
Tunisia Vs Uganda
9 p.m.
