The Algeria vs Egypt match was played In the backdrop of potentially escalating violence, a build up to the game which saw the stoning of the bus carrying Algerians and injuries to three of their players.
Following the match, violence broke out in Marseille. In Egypt, 32 fans including 20 Algerians were hurt in clashes in Cairo and Nasr City.
Amr Zaki, the former Wigan striker who initially lighted up the Premier League after arriving from Zamalek before going AWOL resurfaced to put the Pharoahs ahead in the 2nd minute. The goal would not be enough. With Algeria bottling up the attack an increasingly desperate Egypt looked for the critical second goal. It miraculously came in stoppage time when Mohamed Aboutrika swung in a cross which found Emed Moteab. His weak header had enough of an angle to beat the Algerian goalkeeper to the delight of millions of Egyptians. With that goal, the Egyptians drew level in points and goal difference.
Now the action moves to Sudan on November 18th for the final spot from Africa. It is already being billed as the Battle of Omdurman. Amongst the Sudanese, sides are already being picked.