South Africa won an exciting match against Egypt, finishing 4-3 in their opening game of the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations on Monday night at Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca.
This match was filled with action, including goals, penalties, and a red card. Emile Witbooi scored the winning goal in the 71st minute, helping Amajimbos climb to the top of Group B, tied with Burkina Faso, both having three points.
South Africa started strong, taking the lead in the first minute with a goal from Simphiwe Mlondo. Egypt quickly responded, equalizing three minutes later with a header from Anas Roshdi. The Pharaohs then pulled ahead 3-1 with two more goals from Roshdi and Hamza Abdel Karim in a strong 20-minute period.
Before halftime, South Africa fought back. Neo Bohloko scored two penalties, one in the 27th minute and the second just before the half ended, bringing the score to 3-3.
In the second half, both teams had chances to score. It was Witbooi who broke the deadlock, scoring from the center of the box after receiving a good pass from Bohloko.
In stoppage time, Egypt faced more trouble when Omar Abdel Aziz received a red card after a VAR review. With this result, South Africa is now at the top of Group B alongside Burkina Faso, who earlier beat Cameroon 2-1.
Next, South Africa will play Cameroon on Thursday, while Egypt will aim to recover against Burkina Faso.
