Zimbabwe produced a spirited and disciplined performance against Egypt in their Africa Cup of Nations opener in Morocco, but a late goal saw the Warriors fall to a 2–1 defeat against one of the tournament favourites.
The first half belonged largely to Zimbabwe’s defensive resolve. Marshalled by captain Marvelous Nakamba in midfield, the Warriors disrupted Egypt’s rhythm and closed down space effectively. At the back, Tendayi Darikwa and Divine Lunga worked tirelessly to contain Egypt’s wide threats, while the central defence stood firm under pressure.
Zimbabwe’s early confidence was reflected in their willingness to push forward when chances allowed. Knowledge Musona led the attacking line with intelligence and composure, linking play and drawing defenders, while support runners tried to exploit spaces behind Egypt’s back line. The Warriors’ organisation ensured they went into the break still very much in the contest, having frustrated the Pharaohs for long spells.
After half-time, Egypt raised the tempo and committed more bodies forward. Zimbabwe were forced deeper as wave after wave of pressure followed. The breakthrough came when Omar Marmoush unleashed a powerful strike into the roof of the net, a goal that shifted momentum sharply and pushed Zimbabwe onto the back foot.
To their credit, the Warriors responded with grit rather than panic. Nakamba continued to shield the defence, while Darikwa and Lunga made crucial blocks and interceptions to keep Egypt at bay. In goal, the Zimbabwean goalkeeper was kept busy as Egypt pressed for a winner.
As the match entered its final moments, Zimbabwe attempted to push forward in search of relief, but gaps began to appear. Those spaces were punished in the 90th minute when Mohamed Salah delivered the decisive goal, breaking Zimbabwean resistance and sealing the win for Egypt.
The late strike took the wind out of Zimbabwe’s sails, and although they scrambled for a last-minute equaliser, time was no longer on their side.
Despite the result, Zimbabwe showed they are no walkover in this tournament. Their defensive structure, work rate and intensity stood out against a highly experienced Egyptian side. What they lacked was speed in transition and sustained possession in attacking areas, which limited their ability to create clear chances in the final third.
If the Warriors can build on this performance by improving ball retention and attacking tempo, they will remain a dangerous opponent as the group stage unfolds.
