Egypt advanced to the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals with a 3-1 victory over Benin after extra time. Mohamed Salah's late goal sealed the win following a tense match that saw Benin equalize late in regular time. The Pharaohs dominated after the break but needed additional play to secure progression.
Egypt faced Benin in the Africa Cup of Nations Round of 16 on January 5, 2026, with kick-off at 16:00 UK time. The Pharaohs, having topped Group B, recalled key players including Mohamed Salah, Omar Marmoush, and Trezeguet for the clash. Benin, qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams from Group D, entered as underdogs under coach Gernot Rohr. Rohr expressed confidence beforehand, stating: “Egypt is a high-level opponent but from the group matches we have played, we have acquired some experience on how to overcome such an opponent. We know we are the underdogs in this game but that does not mean that we don’t have the ambition to play a good match and qualify.”
The first half was physical and disjointed, marked by fouls, injuries, and yellow cards, ending 0-0. Egypt had early chances blocked, including efforts from Salah and Marmoush, while Benin countered through Aiyegun Tosin and Junior Olaitan.
After the restart, Egypt took control. In the 69th minute, Marwan Attia curled a right-footed shot from outside the box into the top corner for a 1-0 lead. Benin responded in the 83rd minute, with Jodel Dossou converting from close range after sustained pressure to force extra time.
In the first period of extra time, Yasser Ibrahim headed home from a 97th-minute corner to restore Egypt's advantage. Benin pushed for an equalizer but created few chances. Deep into stoppage time, Salah finished a fast break with a low left-footed strike from outside the box, making it 3-1. Egypt held on for a hard-fought win, advancing amid relief on the pitch and sidelines.
Egypt's lineup included El-Shenawy in goal, with defenders Hamdi, Hany, Rabia, and Ibrahim; midfielders Fathi, Attia, and Adel; and forwards Trezeguet, Salah, and Marmoush. Benin fielded Dandjinou; defenders Ouorou, Roche, Verdon, and Tijani; midfielders Imourane, D’Almeida, and Dodo; and attackers Tosin, Aloko, and Olaitan, without suspended Abdoul Rachid Moumini.