Egypt secured their place in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Benin Republic in a dramatic round of 16 clash on Monday evening.
The match began with both teams displaying cautious tactics, resulting in a goalless first half. However, the game ignited in the second half as Marwan Attia opened the scoring for Egypt in the 69th minute, firing a stunning shot from outside the box into the top left corner after receiving a precise assist from Mohamed Hany.
Benin responded with vigour and equalised just 14 minutes later when Jodel Dossou found the net with a close-range effort, levelling the score at 1-1 in the 83rd minute. The goal provided a glimmer of hope for the Beninese, but Egypt quickly regained control.
As the match approached extra time, Yasser Ibrahim restored Egypt’s lead in the 97th minute, heading home from a corner delivered by Marwan Attia. With momentum on their side, the Pharaohs continued to press forward.
In a final flourish, Mohamed Salah sealed the victory in the dying moments of the match, scoring in the 120+4th minute with a powerful left-footed shot from outside the box, assisted by Zizo during a swift counterattack.
Egypt will now turn their attention to the quarterfinals, where they will aim to continue their pursuit of the coveted AFCON trophy.
