Egypt edge ahead as Ivory Coast fight back in Afcon quarter-final drama
What we’re watching unfold right now is a classic Africa Cup of Nations heavyweight clash, with Egypt and Ivory Coast delivering exactly the kind of tension fans expect at this stage of the tournament. In this Afcon 2025 quarter-final, Egypt have taken a narrow 2–1 lead into the break, but the story is far from settled.
Egypt came out fast and purposeful, and that early intent paid off almost immediately. They struck within the opening minutes, setting the tone and forcing Ivory Coast onto the back foot. The Pharaohs looked sharp and ruthless in those early phases, and when a second goal followed before the half-hour mark, it felt like they were starting to take control of the contest. Mohamed Salah’s influence has been clear, not just as a goal threat but as a creator, pulling defenders out of position and dictating Egypt’s attacking rhythm.
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But Ivory Coast, the defending champions, were never going to fade quietly. Despite trailing by two goals, they stuck to their game plan, dominated possession, and kept pushing into dangerous areas. That persistence finally brought a lifeline just before half-time, when pressure from a set piece led to a goal that cut the deficit in half. It wasn’t the cleanest finish, but at this level, timing matters more than aesthetics, and the Ivorians got their moment exactly when they needed it.
For context, this fixture carries serious weight. Egypt are the most successful nation in Afcon history, but they haven’t lifted the trophy since 2010. Ivory Coast, on the other hand, arrive as holders, still riding the belief built from their recent triumph. A quarter-final like this is about more than just ninety minutes; it’s about legacy, momentum, and who truly belongs among Africa’s elite right now.
This match is trending because it sits right at the crossroads of that story. A giant is trying to reclaim its throne, while another is fighting to prove its reign isn’t over. With a semi-final against Senegal waiting for the winner, the stakes could not be higher.
As the second half approaches, Egypt will be looking to manage the game and protect their lead, while Ivory Coast know they’ve already shown enough to turn this around. Everything is still in play, and this quarter-final is shaping up to be one of the defining moments of Afcon 2025.
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