By Kosi Kosimbom,
Journalist kick442.com – Cameroon
Egypt once again reminded Africa why they are the most decorated nation in AFCON history, digging deep to overcome a stubborn Benin side 3–1 after extra time at the Grand Stade d’Agadir to seal their place in the quarter-finals.
The Pharaohs dominated possession from the opening exchanges, circulating the ball patiently as Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush probed for openings. Benin, however, arrived with a clear plan defend compactly, break quickly, and frustrate Egypt’s rhythm. The first half ended goalless, despite Egypt creating the clearer chances and being denied by brave defending and a crucial goal-line clearance.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 69th minute when Marwan Attia produced a moment of magic, unleashing a stunning strike from the edge of the box to put Egypt ahead. Just as the eight-time champions looked in control, Benin showed admirable resilience. Jodel Dossou pounced on a rebound in the 83rd minute to level the score and force extra time, silencing the Egyptian support and injecting fresh drama into the contest.
Extra time belonged to Egypt’s experience and depth. Centre-back Yasser Ibrahim restored the lead in the 97th minute with a powerful header, rising highest to meet a pinpoint cross and shifting the momentum decisively back in Egypt’s favour. Yasser’s overall performance added saw him crowned man of the match. Benin pushed forward in search of another equaliser but left spaces behind, spaces Egypt would ruthlessly exploit.
FULL-TIME! 🇪🇬🇧🇯
Egypt with a 3-1 win over Benin.
Deep into stoppage time of the second extra-time period, Egypt delivered the final blow. Zizo launched a lightning counter-attack and slipped the ball to Mohamed Salah, who kept his composure to finish clinically from mid-range and seal the victory at 120+4 minutes.
It was a night that captured Egypt’s AFCON pedigree: patience under pressure, leadership in key moments, and decisive quality when it mattered most. Benin depart with pride after pushing the giants to their limits, but Egypt march on battle-hardened, confident, and firmly focused on adding a record-extending ninth continental crown.
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