Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Egypt’s campaign at the 2025 Arab Cup came to an abrupt and disappointing end on Tuesday as the Pharaohs slumped to a 3–0 defeat against a rotated Jordan side, confirming their elimination in the group stage.
The loss left Egypt third in Group C with only two points from three matches. Jordan, already assured of qualification before kickoff, topped the group with nine points. The United Arab Emirates claimed the second qualifying spot after a 3–1 victory over Kuwait, finishing on four points. Kuwait exited bottom of the table with just one.
Jordan dominate despite resting key players
Despite making sweeping changes to his lineup, Jordan coach Jamal Sellami watched his side dictate the tempo throughout. The Jordanians controlled possession, pressed aggressively, and exposed Egypt’s defensive vulnerabilities from the opening minutes.
The deadlock was broken in the 19th minute when Mohamed Abu Hashish punished a costly lapse at the back. Defender Karim El Eraki failed to track the attacker’s run, allowing Abu Hashish to glide behind him and slot calmly past goalkeeper Mohamed Bassam.
Jordan doubled their lead shortly before halftime with a spectacular strike. In the 41st minute, Mohammad Abu Zrayq cut inside from the right and unleashed a curling long-range effort that flew into the far corner, leaving Bassam rooted to the spot.
Egypt’s night deteriorated further in stoppage time. Defender Yassin Marei conceded a penalty, which Ali Alwan confidently converted to seal a commanding 3–0 victory.
The result compounds what has been a deeply disappointing tournament for Egypt, who entered the competition with high expectations but failed to earn a single win. Jordan, meanwhile, head into the knockout stage with momentum and the luxury of having rested several of their key players.
