Egypt defeat Ivory coast 3-2 to reach semifinals

Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush played decisive roles as Egypt edged Ivory Coast 3-2 to dump the defending champions out of the Africa Cup of Nations and secure a place in the semi-finals

The Pharaohs struck early and late, with Marmoush opening the scoring, Ramy Rabia adding a second, and Salah sealing the win after the break as Egypt set up a mouthwatering last-four clash with Senegal.

Ivory Coast twice clawed their way back into the contest through an Ahmed Abou El Fotouh own goal and a Guela Doue effort, but they were ultimately unable to find a third goal to force extra time.

Egypt wasted no time asserting control in Agadir, racing into the lead inside four minutes when Marmoush punished a costly error in midfield and finished clinically. The early goal set the tone for a fast-paced opening spell, with Amad Diallo later seeing a close-range attempt blocked as the holders pushed for a response.

However, Egypt doubled their advantage on 32 minutes when Salah’s corner delivery was met by Rabia, who powered a header home from close range to put Hossam Hassan’s side firmly in command.

Ivory Coast reduced the deficit before the interval after Diomande’s dangerous ball into the area caused confusion, with El Fotouh inadvertently diverting it into his own net.

The Pharaohs re-established their two-goal lead soon after the restart, Rabia starting the move with a sweeping pass before Emam Ashour’s low cross was calmly finished by Salah.

Once again, Ivory Coast refused to go away, pulling back to 3-2 when Doue reacted quickest to flick home following a corner scramble. Despite late pressure, the Elephants could not find an equaliser, allowing Egypt to see out the contest and move within two games of a record-extending eighth AFCON crown.