September 09, (THEWILL) – The Egyptian national team earned a 1-0 victory against Ethiopia on Friday, in a decisive Africa Cup of Nations qualification match.
Playing at the 30 June Stadium, the Pharaohs controlled the tempo throughout and secured the vital win to top their qualification group. The hosts applied pressure early on, with defender, Mohamed Abdelmonem, forcing a save in the 22nd minute. Their breakthrough came in the 37th when Mostafa Fathi pounced on a rebound to slot home after the Ethiopian keeper parried the initial shot.
The 1-0 scoreline remained into halftime. After the restart, Ethiopia showed some attacking impetus but were unable to capitalise on their chances. Shemelis Bekele and Abel Yalew both tested the Egyptian keeper, who preserved his clean sheet. The Pharaohs professionally managed the game to see out the victory.
The win saw Egypt wrap up an impressive qualifying campaign with 15 points from 6 matches. Meanwhile, Ethiopia ended their disappointing run in 4th place with just four points. The result avenged Egypt’s 2-0 loss to the same opponents last June.
With qualification secured, Egypt can now look ahead to the AFCON tournament as they seek to add to their record seven titles. Their fans will be hoping this qualifying form can translate to success on the big stage.
