Egypt booked their place in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Benin 3-1 after extra time on Monday at the Grand Stade d’Agadir, following a Round of 16 encounter that remained finely balanced for long periods.
Well organised and fearless, the Cheetahs caused Egypt serious problems in the first half. Solid defensively and dangerous on the counter-attack, Benin relied on the energy of Aloko, Olaitan and Dossou, while goalkeeper Dandjinou produced several crucial saves. Egypt, despite the presence of Mohamed Salah, struggled to find space and went into the break unable to break the deadlock.
In the closing moments of the match, Mohamed Salah put the result beyond doubt by finishing a counter-attack to score Egypt’s third goal and seal the Pharaohs’ qualification.
Composed when it mattered most, Egypt continue their journey in the competition, while Benin exit with pride after a courageous display against one of the tournament favourites. The Pharaohs will face the winner of the tie between Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso in the quarter-final.
CAF.
