The 2024 Africa Cup of Nations kicked off with a thrilling encounter, as seven-time champions Egypt were held to a 2-2 draw by a determined Mozambique side.
The match, played on January 14th in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, saw a dominant Egypt squander an early lead and nearly suffer a historic upset. Let’s take a look at the Egypt national football team vs Mozambique national football team lineups.
Egypt’s Early Spark Fizzles
The Pharaohs got off to a dream start. Within two minutes, Mostafa Mohamed converted a mishit shot from Mohamed Salah to put Egypt ahead. This early goal seemed to suggest a comfortable win for the much higher-ranked Egyptians.
However, Mozambique national football team refused to be overawed. They grew into the game and began exploiting the space behind Egypt’s left-back, Mohamed Hamdi.
Mozambique’s Bite
The Mambas’ persistence paid off just before halftime. A looping header from Witi drew them level, sending shockwaves through the Egyptian camp.
The second half saw Mozambique continue to threaten, and their attacking intent was rewarded again in the 67th minute. Substitute Clesio Bauque found the net to put Mozambique ahead, sending their fans into a frenzy.
Salah Saves the Day
With the upset looming, Egypt finally responded. A late surge in pressure culminated in a dramatic penalty awarded in the 97th minute. The ever-reliable Mohamed Salah stepped up and converted from the spot, rescuing a point for the shell-shocked Pharaohs.
Talking Points
- Defensive Woes for Egypt: The match exposed vulnerabilities in Egypt’s defense, particularly on the flanks. The lack of support from the wingers for the full-backs created space that Mozambique exploited ruthlessly.
- Mozambique’s Brave Display: The Mambas deserve immense credit for their performance. They displayed excellent organization and tactical awareness, causing significant problems for a team ranked 78 places above them in the FIFA rankings.
- Salah to the Rescue (Again): While Egypt’s overall performance was lackluster, Mohamed Salah’s composure from the penalty spot ensured they didn’t start the tournament with a defeat.
Egypt National Football Team VS Mozambique National Football Team Lineups
Egypt
- Goalkeeper: Mohamed Abou Gabal
- Defenders: Ayman Ashraf, Mahmoud Hamdy, Mohamed Fathy, Ahmed Abou Gabr
- Midfielders: Omar Marmoush, Mohamed Elneny, Mahmoud Sobhy, Omar Kamal
- Forwards: Mostafa Mohamed, Emam Ashour (replaced by Zizo in the second half)
Mozambique
- Goalkeeper: Manuel Jorge (known as “Martinho”)
- Defenders: Clésio Baúque, Jacó Bonde, Fidel Massunda “Fafa”, Inácio Urrubal
- Midfielders: Salomão Nangy, Domingues Mussunda “Malembana”, Bruno Langa, Geny Catamo “Zainadine Jr.” (replaced by Shaquille Pelembe in the second half)
- Forwards: Ailton Candido “Ameego” (replaced by Witi in the first half), Luis Miquissone “King”
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