Egypt star ‘focused’ ahead of Bafana clash

Egypt and Manchester City star Omar Marmoush has emphasised that focus will now shift to his side’s upcoming match against South Africa.

The two nations will go head-to-head in a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations group-stage encounter on Friday.

Both teams got off to winning starts, with Bafana Bafana recording a 2–1 victory over Angola in their tournament opener.

READ | Angola coach: We are not afraid of anyone

The Pharaohs, meanwhile, edged Zimbabwe 2–1, with the match ending in dramatic fashion.

The Warriors drew first blood courtesy of Prince Dube, who found the back of the net in the 20th minute.

Egypt responded after the hour mark, with Marmoush equalising in the 64th minute.

It was then Liverpool star Mohamed Salah who struck in stoppage time, ensuring the Pharaohs claimed all three points in their opening Group B encounter.

Speaking after the match, Marmoush — who was named Man of the Match — said:

“The win is more important than the prize.”

With both sides aiming to progress from the group stage and potentially go all the way, the 26-year-old suggested that his team’s full concentration is now on Bafana Bafana.

“We will now focus on the match against South Africa,” he added, per Ahram Online.

Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan also made clear his side’s ambition to return home with the trophy.

“There are no easy matches in this competition. We want to compete for the title,” he said.

“Egypt are a big nation in Africa and have the right to fight for the trophy.”

READ | Senegal coach cautions AFCON rivals: 'Ignoring Bafana is strange'

Photo Credit: Gallo Images/Olayinka Luqman

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African Nations Cup Bafana Bafana Egypt Hugo Broos Omar Marmoush