AFCON: Egypt Overpower Holders Ivory Coast to Book Semi-Final Spot

Egypt have defeated Ivory Coast 3-2 in the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 quarter-final at the Agadir Grand Stade, advancing to the semi-final stage of the continental tournament.

Egypt opened the scoring early through Omar Marmoush, who finished a through-ball opportunity to give the Pharaohs an early lead.

Ramy Rabia extended Egypt’s advantage with a header from a Mohamed Salah corner, putting Egypt 2-0 ahead midway through the first half.

Ivory Coast reduced the deficit when Egypt defender Ahmed Abou El Fotouh inadvertently turned the ball into his own net just before half-time, giving the Elephants a foothold back in the contest.

Egypt regained momentum after the break when Mohamed Salah struck again to make it 3-1, and despite Ivory Coast’s efforts late in the game, the Pharaohs held on for the win.

Egypt’s progression to the last four continues their run at the tournament, and the victory sets up a semi-final encounter against Senegal, who also advanced from their quarter-final fixture.

The match was part of a historic rivalry between the record seven-time champions and the defending title holders, with Egypt now securing their place among the continent’s top four teams.

The Pharaohs will look to build on their quarter-final performance as they prepare for the next stage, balancing their tournament ambitions with tactical consistency and squad rotation amidst a congested AFCON schedule.