Egypt's Salah Scores Winner to Reach AFCON Semifinals

Liverpool star Mohamed Salah scored the decisive goal as Egypt knocked out defending champions Ivory Coast 3-2 in a heart-pounding Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal on Saturday.

The match in Agadir, Morocco, delivered drama from start to finish. Egypt's Omar Marmoush opened the scoring just four minutes in after Ivory Coast's midfield lost possession, giving the Pharaohs an early advantage.

Defender Ramy Rabia became an unlikely hero, first blocking a dangerous Ivorian attack and then heading in Egypt's second goal from a corner in the 32nd minute. The two-goal cushion looked comfortable until Ivory Coast fought back before halftime, making it 2-1 heading into the break.

Salah restored Egypt's cushion seven minutes into the second half with his fourth goal of the tournament. Rabia launched a long ball that found teammate Emam Ashour, who cleverly set up Salah with the outside of his boot for a clinical finish.

Ivory Coast refused to give up, pulling within one goal again in the 73rd minute through Guela Doue's heel kick during a goalmouth scramble. The champions threw everything forward in search of an equalizer, but Egypt's defense held firm through relentless pressure.

The Ripple Effect

This victory means more than just advancing to the semifinals. Egypt now faces 2021 champions Senegal on Wednesday in Tangier, with a chance to reach the final and claim their eighth AFCON title, more than any other nation in the tournament's history.

The win also continues Egypt's redemption story at this year's tournament. With Salah leading the charge and players like Rabia stepping up in crucial moments, the Pharaohs are showing the depth and determination needed for championship runs.

Meanwhile, Nigeria's 2-0 victory over Algeria in the other quarterfinal sets up a Morocco-Nigeria semifinal clash. The Super Eagles are hunting their first title since 2013, adding another compelling storyline to this year's competition.

For Egypt and their passionate supporters, Wednesday's semifinal represents a chance to move one step closer to continental glory behind their superstar captain.