Hosts Egypt opened their campaign in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations with a 1-0 victory over Zimbabwe Friday night.
In front of a sell-out crowd at the over 70,000-capacity Cairo International Stadium, the Pharaohs beat the Warriors courtesy a beautiful strike by Turkey-based attacker Mahmoud Trezequet.
He struck in the 41st minute – a goal which proved decisive as coach Javier Aguirre’s side emerged culprits of many missed chances to send a stronger signal of title favourites.
#TotalAFCON2019 – HALFTIME:
Egypt 1-0 Zimbabwe
It was a well worked goal from Egypt as they take the lead going into the break thanks to a sublime finish from Trézéguet 🎯
The second-half action continues here > https://t.co/3wUsZ1pF9y pic.twitter.com/bOjbi40XeD
— SuperSport🏏 (@SuperSportTV) June 21, 2019
But the Mexican trainer, at least, would be satisfied with the slim victory and look to build on it.
Star man Mohamed Salah looked more lively and dangerous most of the first half but couldn’t convert his chances.
The Zimbabweans impressively gave a good account of themselves, matching the hosts but could not finish off the few opportunities that came their way.
Egypt’s Mahmoud Alaa was named man-of-the-match.
DR Congo and Uganda complete the opening games in Group A on Saturday.
