AFCON Broadcast Error Overshadows Egypt Anthem Before Salah’s Match-Winning Heroics

Egypt’s Africa Cup of Nations Group B clash with Zimbabwe began in awkward fashion on Monday night after a glaring broadcast error during the national anthems sparked widespread reaction online.

Before a ball was kicked, the beIN Sports television coverage became the focus of attention when cameras repeatedly showed Zimbabwe’s players and supporters while Egypt’s national anthem, “Bilady, Bilady, Bilady,” was being played inside the stadium.

Instead of focusing on Mohamed Salah and his teammates, the broadcast lingered on Zimbabwe internationals including Knowledge Musona, Gerald Takwara, Munashe Garananga and Daniel Msendami, prompting immediate confusion among viewers.

The mistake was quickly noticed on social media, where fans reacted in real time, questioning how such an oversight could occur at one of African football’s flagship tournaments.

The timing of the error added further intrigue, coming on the same day Zimbabwe marked its 38th National Unity Day, commemorating the 1987 Unity Accord. While some viewers pointed to an unfortunate coincidence, others dismissed the incident as another example of AFCON’s occasionally erratic broadcast standards.

“AFCON is unreal,” one fan wrote, while another joked that the tournament is “always about the drama, not just the football”. Others were less forgiving, with one viewer noting that the Zimbabwe line-up was shown twice while Egypt’s players were not shown at all, and another remarking that the cameraman “had just one job”.

Several commentators suggested such mistakes contribute to negative perceptions of African football coverage, despite the quality of football on display.

Salah Delivers on the Pitch

Any lingering frustration from the broadcast error was soon overshadowed by events on the pitch, where Egypt were made to work hard for their opening victory.

Zimbabwe stunned the seven-time AFCON champions by taking the lead in the 20th minute, with Prince Dube finishing from close range to put the Warriors ahead. Egypt dominated possession thereafter and created several chances, but initially struggled to convert their superiority into goals.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 64th minute when Omar Marmoush drew Egypt level, setting up a tense finale.

Deep into stoppage time, Mostafa Mohamed flicked on a header inside the penalty area and Mohamed Salah reacted quickest, guiding a left-footed finish into the bottom corner to complete a dramatic 2–1 comeback victory.

The late winner instantly erased memories of the pre-match broadcast mishap, with Salah once again delivering on the biggest stage.

Captain’s Performance Sets the Tone

Beyond his decisive goal, Salah produced a commanding all-round display. The Egypt captain created three clear chances, made six key passes, won five duels, completed 34 passes and successfully completed two dribbles.

His performance prompted an outpouring of praise online, with one fan declaring: “Never doubt Mohamed Salah again.”

The goal also extended Salah’s impressive AFCON scoring streak to five consecutive tournament matches. Having been left in tears after Egypt’s defeat in the 2022 AFCON final, the Liverpool forward remains determined to lift the trophy this time around.

Egypt’s victory sees them move to the top of Group B alongside South Africa, setting the tone for what they hope will be a deep run in the tournament.