On the night of January 5th, 2026, the Stade Adrar in Agadir, Morocco, witnessed a thrilling match between Egypt and Benin in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 round of 16. The highly anticipated encounter pitted the experienced Pharaohs of Egypt against the resilient Squirrels of Benin, culminating in a hard-fought 3-1 victory for Egypt in extra time, with the decisive goal scored by none other than Mohamed Salah .
The match began with a high tempo, showcasing the tactical prowess of both teams. Egypt, known for their disciplined defense and swift counter-attacks, faced a spirited Benin side that fought valiantly to keep pace. The first goal of the game came from Marwan Attia, who curled in a superb effort from the edge of the box, giving Egypt the lead . Despite the early setback, Benin remained undeterred, and Jodel Dossou equalized with a composed finish, leveling the score at 1-1 and sending the match into a tense second half .
The second half saw both teams struggling to break the deadlock, with chances coming at a premium. The match seemed headed for a penalty shootout until Yasser Ibrahim's header in the 105th minute put Egypt back in the lead . In the dying seconds of extra time, Mohamed Salah, the Egyptian captain, sealed the victory with a clinical finish, scoring the decisive goal after 124 minutes of play . Salah's goal ensured Egypt's place in the quarter-finals of the AFCON 2025, marking a significant milestone for the Pharaohs .
The victory was a testament to Egypt's resilience and tactical discipline, qualities that have defined their journey in the competition. The Pharaohs' ability to adapt and execute under pressure, particularly in the extra time, showcased their depth and experience. Mohamed Salah, the talisman of the Egyptian side, once again proved his worth with a crucial goal, cementing his status as one of Africa's greatest footballers .
The match was also a reminder of the growing competitiveness of African football. Benin, often considered underdogs, put up a fierce fight, demonstrating their potential and determination. Their performance was a testament to the increasing standards of African football, where even the smaller nations can pose significant challenges to the traditional powerhouses .
The road to the AFCON 2025 quarter-finals has been fraught with challenges for Egypt, but their victory over Benin underscores their commitment and resilience. As they prepare for the next phase of the tournament, the Pharaohs will look to build on this victory, aiming to claim the coveted AFCON title once again. The dramatic win against Benin serves as a springboard, setting the stage for an exciting journey ahead in the AFCON 2025 .
