In a redemption-seeking effort following their prior defeat, Egypt clinched a hard-fought 1-0 triumph over Ethiopia in the conclusive stage of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on Friday, with Mostafa Fathi’s lone strike proving to be the game-changer.
In the absence of Mohamed Salah, Fathi stepped up and netted a crucial goal in the 37th minute, recording his second consecutive scoring feat for the Pharaohs, following his debut goal against South Sudan back in June.
“Today’s match was the start of the season for some players and so some of them had not reached top form yet. Failing to score a second goal gave our opponents the confidence to attack,” he added, pointing out that they had won all five qualifying games.
Egypt is set to face Tunisia in a friendly match on Monday.
