World Cup Qualifying: Salah and Marmoush combine to down Ethiopia

Photo: Egyptian Football Association

World Cup Qualifying: Salah and Marmoush combine to down Ethiopia

Egypt continued their march towards the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a difficult 2-0 victory over Ethiopia at Cairo International Stadium, extending their lead at the top of Group A.

The Pharaohs could have taken an early lead when Omar Marmoush was denied by the Ethiopian goalkeeper in the 4th minute, following a neat pass from Mahmoud Hassan “Trezeguet”.

Just minutes later, Trezeguet himself came close after being set up by Mohamed Salah, only to see his effort saved. The Al Ahly winger remained at the heart of Egypt’s attacking threat, hitting the post in the 21st minute after testing the keeper several times earlier.

Despite Ethiopia’s limited chances, they tried to stun the home crowd in the 28th minute when Kanan Markneh fired a low shot, but Mohamed El Shenawy was equal to it.

Egypt’s breakthrough came in the 38th minute when Trezeguet was brought down inside the box. Salah stepped up confidently and converted the penalty to put his side ahead.

Another spot kick followed just before halftime, this time awarded for a handball after a shot by Ahmed Sayed “Zizo”. Marmoush took responsibility and doubled Egypt’s lead in stoppage time.

The second half saw Ethiopia trying to respond, but their finishing lacked precision. Salah spurned a big chance in the 49th minute, while Zizo and substitute Osama Faisal also tested the Ethiopian defense. The visitors came close late on through Chernet Gugsa, but El Shenawy produced a smart save with his feet to preserve Egypt’s clean sheet.

The result leaves Egypt on 19 points, five clear of Burkina Faso, tightening their grip on first place in Group A. Ethiopia, meanwhile, remain on 6 points in fifth. One more win—particularly in the upcoming clash against Burkina Faso—will all but guarantee Egypt’s spot at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

After Burkina Faso defeated Djibouti with ease earlier on Friday, it remains a two-horse race for top spot in Group A with Egypt remaining the heavy favorites. However, the Stallions of Burkina Faso can make things interesting now that they will finally be able to host their home fixtures starting with Tuesday’s crucial clash after a long wait for the Stade du 4 Août to be approved.

Sierra Leone and Guinea-Bissau remain in contention for the runner-up position and potentially a place in the playoff stage if Burkina Faso fall to Egypt.