Former Egypt Star Warns Bafana Bafana Will Be Real Test for Pharaohs

Egypt began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a narrow 2–1 victory over Zimbabwe, but former international Hazem Emam believes the Pharaohs’ real challenge lies ahead against Bafana Bafana.

In their Group B opener, Egypt fell behind in the 20th minute when Prince Dube put Zimbabwe ahead. The Pharaohs responded after halftime, with Omar Marmoush equalising just after the hour mark. Mohamed Salah sealed the win with a stoppage-time strike, giving Egypt all three points.

South Africa also started the tournament strongly, defeating Angola 2–1. Both teams now sit level on points, setting up a crucial Group B clash that could determine progression to the knockout stages.

Emam, speaking on On Sport, warned that Egypt’s performance against Zimbabwe exposed vulnerabilities. He highlighted moments of mental complacency that could prove costly against stronger opposition.

“There were moments of mental laziness and a feeling that the opponent was weak, with too much reliance on the idea that the opposing player would not pose a threat. This feeling is more dangerous than any technical mistake, because it directly affects positioning and reaction speed,” Emam said.

He added that lapses in defensive organisation and transition could be exploited by South Africa. “Allowing the opponent freedom in one-on-one situations and giving space for direct shots exposes the team defensively. The lack of players capable of performing both defensive and offensive roles leaves the full-back exposed, and once beaten, the entire defensive line is forced to retreat.”

Emam also praised head coach Hossam Hassan for his in-game management but stressed that adjustments will be needed against stronger opponents. “Against strong teams, it is necessary to play with holding midfielders to close the middle of the pitch and prevent direct shots. Hossam Hassan’s reading of the match deserves credit, but this approach worked because the opponent was offensively weak and cannot be repeated every time.”

He concluded by underlining the scale of the upcoming test. “The next real challenge will be defensive rather than offensive, especially against strong teams like South Africa, where the scenario will be completely different.”

Egypt now faces Bafana Bafana in what promises to be a decisive Group B encounter. Both sides will be looking to secure an early advantage in the race for the knockout stages.