Egypt started their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign in style, securing a commanding 3-0 victory over Cape Verde on Friday at Cairo International Stadium. Goals from Rami Rabia in the 23rd minute and Omar Marmoush in stoppage time of the first half gave the hosts a comfortable lead going into the break. Ibrahim Adel sealed the win with a 70th-minute strike, ending any hopes of a Cape Verde comeback. The Pharaohs top Group C with three points pending the result of Mauritania and Botswana game on Saturday. Coach Hossam started the game with a clear attacking intent as he deployed Mohamed Salah, Mostafa Mohamed, Omar Marmoush, Mahmoud Trezeguet and Ahmed 'Zizo' El Sayed in his lineup. Egypt controlled the tempo but only created their first chance in the 21st minute when Marmoush's close-range shot was deflected for a corner. Two minutes later, Rabia rose highest to meet Zizo's cross and nodded in the opener. Egypt continued to press, with Marmoush's powerful shot again deflected wide and Mosta fa Mohamed twice denied by the Cape Verde keeper. As the visitors pushed forward late in the first half, Salah found Marmoush in space, and the forward slotted home from close range just before the break. Egypt appeared more cautious after the interval, surrendering possession at times. Cape Verde's Gilson Benchimol fired into the side netting, and Duarte's long-range shot was comfortably saved by goalkeeper Mohamed El Shennawy. Hassan introduced Ibrahim Adel and Mostafa Fathy to regain control, and the pair combined on a counterattack for Adel's first international goal from close range. Egypt now travel to face Botswana on Tuesday, but Hassan will be sweating on the fitness of Mostafa Mohamed and Rabia, who both left the game injured. Source: State Information Service Egypt