Egypt were held to a goalless draw by Angola in their opening CAN 2027 qualifier, despite dominating possession and creating more chances at Cairo International Stadium on Friday.
The Group B match ended 0-0, leaving both teams with a point from the first round of fixtures.
Egypt controlled 63% of the ball compared with Angola’s 37% and registered 14 shots to the visitors’ 10. However, only three of the hosts’ attempts were on target, while Angola managed two efforts on goal.
Mohamed Salah and his team-mates were unable to turn their territorial advantage into a breakthrough. Egypt repeatedly tested the Palancas Negras’ defence, but Angola remained organised and resolute throughout the 90 minutes.
The result represents a disappointing start to the qualifying campaign for the Pharaons, who were playing in front of their home supporters. Their dominance was not reflected on the scoresheet as they failed to find a way past the Angola goalkeeper.
Angola’s defensive performance ensured the visitors preserved a clean sheet until the final whistle and secured a valuable point in Cairo.
Egypt will need to be more clinical in their next match if they are to avoid dropping further points in the race to qualify for CAN 2027.