South Africa stuns Egypt to secure spot in CHAN final qualifying round

South Africa triumphed over Egypt with a 3-1 victory in Ismailia on Sunday, securing their advancement to the final qualifying round for the African Nations Championship (CHAN). 

The visitors, who moved past Egypt with an aggregate score of 4-2, will now prepare for a daunting doubleheader against Malawi in May as they strive for a place in the prestigious biennial tournament.

The match, initially set for February, will take place across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda in August after the tournament’s schedule was postponed due to delays in preparations. South Africa entered the second leg poised for the challenge after a hard-fought 1-1 draw in Bloemfontein, while Egypt had the advantage of home turf and were expected to capitalise on their previous performance, yet they found themselves unable to match South Africa’s dexterity and showmanship on the field.

Leading the charge for the visitors was the inspirational captain and midfielder Neo Maema, who struck early, delivering the opener just 15 minutes into the match. Maema nearly extended his tally further, striking the woodwork twice before the interval. His efforts laid the foundation for South Africa’s attacking prowess.

Yandisa Mfolozi followed suit, doubling the lead to 2-0 in the 27th minute as Egypt struggled to clear a threatening cross. The home side, however, managed to respond five minutes later when Abou el Enein found the net, dimming the hopes of an outright defeat. However, South Africa quickly reasserted their control just after the break. 

In the 51st minute, Siphelele Luthuli converted a penalty to restore the two-goal aggregate lead, leaving Egypt needing a monumental comeback to secure progression.

Stunned and needing at least three goals to win the tie under the away-goal rule, Egypt struggled to mount a significant challenge, ultimately failing to penetrate the resolute South African defence.

In other qualifying matches, Malawi completed a solid double over the Comoros with a convincing 2-0 victory in Lilongwe on Saturday, following a 2-0 win in the first leg. Wongani Lungu and Binwell Katinji found the back of the net, reinforcing Malawi’s credentials as they look ahead to face South Africa.

The championship, now poised for a crowded August schedule, serves as a reminder of the ever-dynamic landscape of African football, with nations like Gambia also making headlines, eliminating Gabon despite lacking a FIFA-approved venue and setting up a showdown with Algeria.