Egypt beat Benin to sail through to the quarterfinals
Egypt defeated Benin 3-1 after extra time in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Round of 16, with goals from Marwan Attia, Yasser Ibrahim, and Mohamed Salah sealing their place in the quarter-finals. Benin fought hard, equalizing through Jodel Dossou, but Egypt’s quality and composure in extra time proved decisive.
The opening 45 minutes in Agadir were cagey, with both sides prioritizing defensive solidity over attacking flair. Egypt controlled possession, recording 55% of the ball, but struggled to break down Benin’s compact backline. Salah was closely marked, while Benin relied on counter-attacks through Dossou and Tosin. Despite Egypt’s territorial dominance, neither side created clear-cut chances, and the half ended goalless.
The Pharaohs finally found their breakthrough in the 69th minute. Midfielder Marwan Attia produced a stunning strike from 25 meters, curling the ball into the top corner after a neat exchange involving Salah and Mohamed Hany. The goal lifted Egypt’s confidence, and they began to push forward with greater urgency, sensing an opportunity to put the game beyond Benin.
Benin refused to fold and struck back in the 83rd minute. Winger Jodel Dossou capitalized on a defensive lapse, slotting home to level the score at 1-1. The equalizer stunned Egypt, who had looked in control, and forced the match into extra time. Benin’s resilience highlighted their growth as a footballing nation, showing they could compete with Africa’s heavyweights.
Egypt regained their composure in extra time. Just two minutes into the added period, Yasser Ibrahim rose highest from a corner to head Egypt back into the lead at 97 minutes. Benin, visibly tiring, struggled to maintain their defensive shape. Egypt’s midfield trio began to dictate play, recycling possession and stretching Benin’s lines, while Salah lurked dangerously on the counter.
The decisive moment came deep into stoppage time of extra time. In the 124th minute, Mohamed Salah capped off a swift counterattack, rifling a left-footed shot from outside the box into the net. Assisted by Zizo, Salah’s strike ended Benin’s hopes and underlined his status as Egypt’s talisman. The goal was a fitting finale, ensuring Egypt’s progression to the quarter-finals with a 3-1 victory.
Egypt’s triumph showcased their ability to grind out results under pressure. While Benin impressed with their resilience and tactical discipline, Egypt’s superior depth and star quality ultimately made the difference. With Salah in inspired form and contributions from Attia and Ibrahim, Egypt now head into the quarter-finals with momentum and belief to face either Côte d’Ivoire or Burkina Faso.
