The 2025 AFCON Day 2 Matches saw Egypt and South Africa win, while Mali and Zambia ended in a stalemate.
The drama at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) intensified on Day 2 as South Africa and Egypt recorded marginal 2-1 victories over their opponents, while Mali and Zambia played to a bruising draw that kept fans glued to their screens.
As Nigerian football lovers tracked the 2025 AFCON Day 2 results, the matches reminded everyone why AFCON remains one of the most unpredictable and emotional tournaments in world football.
From disciplined defending to moments of attacking brilliance, Day 2 delivered everything fans hoped for and more.
The first match of 2025 AFCON Day 2 saw Mali and Zambia cancel each other out in a physically demanding encounter filled with energy, tackles, and near misses.
Mali controlled much of the midfield battle, using strength and structure to push forward, while Zambia relied on speed and direct attacking play to stretch the defense. Both teams had moments where victory seemed possible, but solid goalkeeping and last-ditch defending ensured the points were shared.
With Mali having a 79% probability of winning the match, they couldn’t capitalize on their missed chances. Dorgeles Nene of Mali had his goal ruled out by VAR in the 39th minute, and El Bilal Touré missed a penalty just 3 minutes later.
Goals came in the second half from Lassine Sinayoko of Mali in the 61st minute and from Patson Daka of Zambia in the final minutes of the match. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with Patson Daka getting a neck injury from his failed acrobatic celebrations.
The draw leaves both teams with everything still to play for as qualification hopes remain alive but under pressure.
The second match of 2025 AFCON Day 2 saw South Africa announcing their intentions to win the title. Playing with confidence and structure, Bafana Bafana controlled large spells of their match against Angola and took their chances when it mattered most.
Their attacking movements were sharp, their midfield stayed compact, and the defense held firm under pressure. Once they took the lead, South Africa managed the game maturely, denying their opponents space and rhythm.
The match of 2025 AFCON Day 2, played at Stade de Marrakech, saw both South Africa and Angola finding the net in the first half. Bafana Bafana’s winger, Oswin Appollis, scored in the 21st minute, and Manuel Luís da Silva Cafumana, AKA Show, equalized for Angola in the 35th minute of the match.
Lyle Foster scored for South Africa in the 79th minute to make it 2-1. The match saw a total of 40 fouls as both teams were aggressive with their play. The victory gives South Africa early momentum and puts them in a strong position heading into the next round of group games.
The last match of 2025 AFCON Day 2 saw Egypt in a really scary position of losing their first match to Zimbabwe. However, the Pharaohs delivered a calm and professional performance to secure all three points without unnecessary risks.
They dominated the tempo, recycled possession patiently, and struck at the right moments. Egypt’s defensive organization stood out, as they limited opposition attacks and stayed composed under pressure.
While Egypt had a 90% probability of winning, Zimbabwe’s forward, Prince Dube, scored in the 20th minute, silencing the Egyptian fans. Omar Marmoush equalized for Egypt in the 64th minute to make it 1-1, and former African Footballer of the Year Mohamed Salah scored in the dying minutes to make it a 2-1 victory for Egypt over Zimbabwe.
With South Africa and Egypt securing wins, early momentum is already shaping the group standings. As Nigerian fans know from past tournaments, picking up points early at the 2025 AFCON can make the difference between smooth qualification and early heartbreak.
For Mali and Zambia, the draw keeps their hopes intact, but upcoming matches now carry extra weight.
Morocco’s opening win against Comoros and the 2025 AFCON Day 2 have already delivered drama, intensity, and high-quality football. With more heavyweight clashes ahead, fans should expect more surprises, tactical battles, and unforgettable moments.
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