Despite clearly dominating the game, the Egyptian national team could do no better than a 1-1 draw against a combative Botswana. The Pharaohs lacked realism, while the visitors were able to resist solidly to win a precious point which qualifies them for the final phase of CAN 2025.
Egyptian domination, but a complicated start
Egypt was surprised from the start of the match by a well-organized and determined Botswana team. The visitors opened the scoring in the 8th minute thanks to Omaatla Kebatho, who took a loose ball to score a strong goal. Shaken, the Pharaohs reacted quickly, increasing their offensives. Mahmoud “Trezeguet” Hassan equalized in the 15th minute with a superb strike from outside the box, which found the bottom right corner of the net. The home side dominated possession with 82% control of the ball, but failed to fully exploit their chances, notably through Nasser Maher and Taher Mohamed.
Despite their superiority, Egypt lacked efficiency in the last move against a compact Botswana defense. Goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir was vigilant in blocking a powerful Kebato strike in the 32nd minute, preventing Botswana from regaining the lead. At the break, the two teams were tied 1-1, despite a clear Egyptian domination.
A second act under pressure
In the second half, Egypt kept up the pressure. She created several chances without managing to take the advantage. Marmoush and Nasser Maher tried their luck, but their shots were blocked by the defense or lacked precision. Despite the entries of Ibrahim Adel and Osama Faisal, the Pharaohs continued to waste their opportunities, including a missed strike from Adel from close range.
In the final minutes, Egypt desperately searched for the winning goal. Marwan Attia and Marmoush tried their luck from distance, but their shots did not find the target. Botswana, well grouped, resisted until the end and won a precious point which allows them to qualify.
The two teams
Egypt: Mostafa Shobeir – Mohamed Hamdy, Mohamed Rabia, Ahmed Ramadan (Hossam Abdel-Meguid 59), Omar Kamal (Mostafa Fathi 86)- Marwan Attiya, Nasser Maher, Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet (Mahmoud Zalaka 86)- Taher Mohamed (Ibrahim Adel 68), Mostafa Mohamed (Osama Faisal 68), Omar Marmoush
Botswana: G. Goat; T. Leinanyane, M. Gaolaolwe, L. Ditsele, T. Ditlhokwe, C. Molefe, G. Baruti (Tebogo Kopelang 46), G. , T. Orebonye (Ricky Ratlho 90+4)
