Egypt booked their place in the quarterfinals of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 after edging past a stubborn Benin side 3–1 in a dramatic Round of 16 encounter that went all the way to extra time.
The Pharaohs dominated possession and territory for large spells, but Benin’s discipline and defensive organisation turned the contest into a stern test of patience that stretched deep into stoppage time.
The opening hour followed a familiar pattern for Egypt. Stars Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush struggled to find space as Benin’s compact back line stayed aggressive and well-drilled.
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Benin goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou delivered a standout performance, denying clear chances from Marmoush, Ramy Rabia, and even Salah himself, keeping the score level and frustrating Egyptian supporters eager for an early breakthrough.
The pressure eventually told in the 70th minute. A dangerous delivery into the penalty area fell kindly to Marwan Attia, who struck cleanly to send the Egyptian fans into celebration and give the Pharaohs a deserved lead.
At that stage, it appeared Egypt had done enough to see the game out—but the drama was far from over.
Against the run of play, Benin stunned Egypt with an equaliser in the 83rd minute. A moment of hesitation from goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy allowed Jodel Dossou to react quickest and slide the ball home.
With extra time looming, tension swept through the stadium as Benin began to sense the possibility of a historic upset.
Deep into stoppage time, Egypt found salvation from a set piece. A well-worked routine ended with Yasser Ibrahim rising highest to power home an unstoppable header, restoring Egypt’s lead.
Then, in the 120th minute, with fatigue setting in and spaces opening up, Mohamed Salah put the contest beyond doubt. The Liverpool forward finished clinically on the counterattack to score his third goal of the tournament and seal a 3–1 victory.
With the win, Egypt advances to the AFCON 2025 quarterfinals, where they will face the winner of the clash between Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso.
It was not a flawless performance, but in knockout football, experience and timing often prove decisive—and once again, the Pharaohs found a way when it mattered most.