Egypt advanced to the quarter‑finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a 3‑1 victory over Benin on Monday night. The match, held at Stade Adrar, saw Egypt dominate early, with Marwan Attia opening the scoring in the 70th minute with a well‑crafted side‑footed strike from outside the penalty area. Benin’s lone goal came seven minutes from time when Junior Olaitan’s cross deflected off Ahmed Fatouh, allowing Jodel Dossou to tap the ball home and force extra time.
In the first period of extra time, Egypt regained the lead when Attia floated a cross into the box and Yasser Ibrahim headed it past Benin goalkeeper Marcel Souke Dandjinou. Benin pressed for another equaliser, but Egypt counter‑attacked; Zizo released Mohamed Salah, who scored his third tournament goal with a strike from the outside of his left foot. The win sets up a quarter‑final clash with the winner of Tuesday’s match between defending champions Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso.
Egypt, seven‑time Africa Cup of Nations champions, entered the encounter as favourites after topping Group B. Benin, meanwhile, reached the knockout stage for only the second time in five appearances, underscoring their growing stature. Mohamed Salah described the match as physically demanding, noting, “There are no easy games at the Cup of Nations.” The victory reinforces Egypt’s status as a strong contender, while Benin’s performance highlights their development.
In another last‑16 fixture, Nigeria faced Mozambique at Stade de Fès, with the winner advancing to the quarter‑finals. The tournament continues to showcase the talent and determination of African football teams, promising intense and exciting matches at the quarter‑final stage.
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