Mohamed Salah gives 10-man Egypt victory in controversial South Africa Afcon clash | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload ourSocial PartnerWe are 8 logo (opens in a new tab)AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleIndependent StaffFriday 26 December 2025 17:19 GMTSouth Africa were also denied a late penalty of their own following a VAR review, adding to the contentious nature of the match (AP)Egypt secured a controversial passage to the Africa Cup of Nations last-16, defeating South Africa thanks to a Mohamed Salah penalty, despite playing the entire second half with 10 men. South Africa were also denied a late penalty of their own following a VAR review, adding to the contentious nature of the match.Following a cagey start, the match ignited late in the first half when Salah was caught by a stray arm from South Africa defender Khuliso Mudau inside the box. A VAR-recommended on-field review led to a penalty, which Salah calmly chipped down the middle to open the scoring.South Africa gained a lifeline just before half-time as Egypt were reduced to 10 men, Mohamed Hany receiving his second yellow card for a needless, mistimed challenge on the touchline. Despite their numerical advantage, South Africa struggled to break down Egypt’s defence and barely threatened throughout the second period.Deep in stoppage time, Egypt survived another VAR review after a shot from South Africa’s Teboho Mokoena struck a diving Yasser Ibrahim right on the edge of the box. Referee Pacifique Ndabihawenimana, who initially gave a free-kick, was sent to the pitch-side monitor, but controversially reversed his decision, and no penalty was awarded.Egypt are now through to the last-16 with two wins from their opening two games. South Africa will need a result against Zimbabwe to progress, likely setting up a last-16 clash with Ivory Coast or Cameroon.In fullEgypt v South Africa live: Mohamed Salah sends 10-man Pharaohs through in controversial Africa Cup of Nations clashThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in