Egypt Survive Major Scare to Edge Past Benin in AFCON Extra-Time Thriller

- by Olatunji Johnson

Pharaohs Bounce Back After Late Heartbreak to Secure Quarterfinal Berth

Egypt’s quest for a first Africa Cup of Nations title since 2010 remains alive, but only after surviving a monumental scare against a spirited Benin side, eventually triumphing 3-1 after extra time in a dramatic round-of-16 clash.

The seven-time champions were pushed to the brink in a tense and often nervy encounter, needing an additional 30 minutes to overcome a Benin team making their first knockout appearance since 2019. Just as Egypt thought they had secured victory through Marwan Attia’s stunning 69th-minute strike, Benin substitute Jodel Dossou leveled with a close-range rebound in the 83rd minute, sending the match into extra time and silencing the Egyptian fans.

“It was a very difficult match,” admitted Egypt coach Rui Vitória. “Benin fought incredibly hard. We had to show our character and experience to get through.”

That character was evident early in extra time when defender Yasser Ibrahim rose to nod home a crucial header, restoring Egypt’s lead. Captain Mohamed Salah then sealed the victory deep into added time with a calm finish on the counterattack, finally extinguishing Benin’s resistance.

While Egypt ultimately progressed, the performance highlighted vulnerabilities. They struggled to break down a disciplined Beninese defense for long periods and were punished for not killing the game when they had the chance.

For Benin, the defeat ends a courageous campaign. “We showed the heart of a lion tonight,” said coach Gernot Rohr. “We made a great nation fight until the very end. The players can be proud.”

Egypt now advances to a quarterfinal showdown on Saturday against either hosts Ivory Coast or Burkina Faso. The path to an eighth AFCON crown remains open, but Monday’s nervy display served as a clear warning: nothing will come easily.

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