Egypt has secured full control of Group A in Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers after defeating Ethiopia 2-0 at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco. Mohamed Salah played a pivotal role, scoring one goal and providing an assist during the match.
The Pharaohs took the lead with first-half goals from Mohamed Salah and Zizo, putting them five points ahead of their nearest rivals, Burkina Faso, at the top of the Group A standings.
Ethiopia initially competed well against their more prominent opponents for the first 30 minutes. However, their efforts were undermined when they lost possession in their own half. Hamdi Fathy set up Mohamed Salah, who finished skillfully past debutant goalkeeper Abubeker Ambisa in the 31st minute, making it 1-0.
Salah then switched roles from scorer to provider, delivering a perfectly timed pass to Zizo, who found the net from a tight angle in the 40th minute, extending Egypt’s lead to 2-0 and putting them firmly in control of the match.
In the second half, the Pharaohs eased off the pressure somewhat but still created several notable chances. Trezeguet was particularly unlucky, as he was denied a penalty despite being brought down in the box, and he faced a brilliant double save from Ambisa. He also hit the upright on three separate occasions.
Ultimately, Hossam Hassan’s side concluded the match with a 2-0 victory, which did not fully reflect their dominance. However, the three points bring them closer to qualifying for the global tournament in North America next year.
Ethiopia will return to Group A action on Monday, March 24, facing Djibouti in a neutral venue in Morocco, while Egypt will host Sierra Leone in Cairo the following day. which did not fully reflect their dominance. However, the three points bring them closer to qualifying for the global tournament in North America next year.
Ethiopia will return to Group A action on Monday, March 24, facing Djibouti in a neutral venue in Morocco, while Egypt will host Sierra Leone in Cairo the following day.
