Experience, patience, and a late Mohamed Salah masterstroke carry Egypt into the AFCON 2025 quarter-finals.
Rabat, Morocco. Egypt once again reminded Africa why they are perennial contenders at the Africa Cup of Nations, overcoming a stubborn Benin side 3–1 after extra time in a gripping Round of 16 encounter at AFCON 2025. It was a match that tested the Pharaohs’ composure, resilience, and pedigree—but when it mattered most, experience told.
A Cagey Contest Finally Breaks Open
For much of the match, Benin frustrated Egypt with disciplined defending and quick transitions, forcing the seven-time champions to work tirelessly for openings. Despite enjoying the lion’s share of possession, Egypt found clear chances hard to come by in the opening hour.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 69th minute. Attia rose to the occasion, finishing calmly after sustained Egyptian pressure to give the Pharaohs a deserved 1–0 lead. The goal appeared to settle nerves and tilt the momentum firmly in Egypt’s favour.
Benin Fight Back, Egypt Respond
Just when Egypt seemed in control, Benin struck back. In the 83rd minute, J. Dossou capitalised on a rare lapse in the Egyptian backline, firing home to level the score at 1–1 and stun the favourites. The equaliser forced the match into extra time and injected belief into the Beninese camp.
Benin’s resistance, however, could only last so long.
In the 97th minute, Y. Ibrahim restored Egypt’s lead with a decisive finish, pouncing on a loose ball in the box to make it 2–1. The goal broke Benin’s momentum and swung the tie firmly back Egypt’s way.
As Benin pushed forward in search of another equaliser, spaces opened up—and Egypt’s talisman was waiting.
Deep into stoppage time of extra time, Mohamed Salah sealed the victory in the 120+4 minute, clinically converting to make it 3–1 and end all doubt. It was a captain’s contribution, delivered at the biggest moment.
Reaching the quarter-finals is familiar territory for Egypt. Historically, the Pharaohs almost always navigate past the Round of 16 when they qualify, built on a culture of tournament know-how and pressure management. AFCON knockouts are where Egypt traditionally come alive.
However, this journey has been far from straightforward. AFCON 2025 has demanded patience and mental strength from the Pharaohs, with tight matches, resilient opponents, and little margin for error. Benin’s performance underlined how competitive the tournament has become, pushing Egypt to extra time and forcing them to dig deep.