Egypt became the last team to reach the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations by defeating defending champions Ivory Coast 3-2 in the quarter-final at the Grand Stade d’Agadir.

Egypt began the match at a blistering pace and struck in the 4th minute through Omar Marmoush to have their fans dreaming for a place in the semi-final.

Egypt struck again in the 32nd minute. Ramy Rabia rose to meet a cross and powerfully headed the ball into the back of the net, doubling the lead and putting the Pharaohs 2-0 up

The defending champions regained hope before the break when Egypt conceded an own goal in the 40th minute, reducing the score to 2-1 and changing the momentum before halftime.

Egypt responded perfectly after the break. Mohamed Salah restored their two-goal lead in the 52nd minute, scoring to make it 3-1 and giving his team a much-needed boost.

Ivory Coast refused to admit defeat. In the 73rd minute, Guéla Doué struck to bring the score to 3-2 and set up a tense end to the match, with the Elephants throwing everything they had into attack in search of an equalizer.

But Egypt managed the end of the match, defending their area and resisting the pressure to secure a prestigious victory against the reigning champions and continue their quest for the title.