Mo Salah struck in face as Egypt seal AFCON progress after VAR controversy

Liverpool star Mo Salah scored against South Africa as Egypt's win sent them into the last 16 at AFCON but they had some help from a controversial VAR decision

Mohamed Salah scored in controversial circumstances as Egypt won 1-0 against South Africa at the Africa Cup of Nations, securing their place in the last 16. The Pharaohs top Group B after claiming six points from two matches and have confirmed their progress to the knockout stages following Zimbabwe and Angola's draw earlier in the day.

The Liverpool star won and converted a first-half penalty to hand his side an advantage in their second match of the tournament in Morocco. Salah was struck in the face by Khuliso Mudau and hit the floor in the opposition area.

While the Egyptian clutched his face, referee Pacifique Ndabihaweniman did not blow his whistle. The incident was reviewed by VAR, however, and a lengthy deliberation followed.

Some observers were shocked at the level of consideration taking place over the decision due to what looked to some to be light and accidental contact. After being sent to review the footage, though Ndabihaweniman pointed to the spot and soon began issuing yellow cards.

South Africa pair Mudau and Lyle Foster both picked up cautions, with the latter furiously protesting what he considered a soft decision. Salah did not waste his opportunity, coolly dispatching his penalty with a light chip into the centre of the goal.

Egypt handed their opponents a route back into the match when full-back Mohamed Hany received a second yellow card moments later. The defender was given his marching orders for an unnecessary foul on the halfway line on the verge of half-time.

The drama did not end there as South Africa were denied a penalty in the dying moments of the game. They were awarded a free kick on the edge of the area after a diving Yasser Ibrahim blocked a shot from Teboho Mokoena with his arm.

After a VAR review, no penalty was awarded despite Ibrahim clearly appearing in the area. The defender's arm appeared to be breaking his fall. Nevertheless, Ibrahim put his head to the floor in prayer and was clearly very relieved.

Egypt will next face Angola in their final group game, aiming to cement their place at the top of the group. Salah's time away from Liverpool will now be extended.

Last 16 matches take place between January 3rd and January 6th. That means the 33-year-old will definitely miss matches against Wolves, Leeds and Fulham.

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