Agadir, Morocco – Mohamed Salah scored in the final seconds of extra time to give Egypt a dramatic 3‑1 victory over Benin in the Round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), securing the Pharaohs’ place in the quarterfinals.

The match, held at Stade d’Agadir, saw Egypt struggle against a resilient Benin side. After taking the lead through Marwan Attia in the 69th minute, Egypt conceded late in regulation when Jodel Dossou capitalized on a rebound in the 83rd minute to level the score 1‑1, forcing extra time.

Extra Time Drama

Egypt returned strongly in extra time. Attia was again pivotal, providing the assist for Yasser Ibrahim, whose looping header in the 97th minute put the Pharaohs back ahead.

Salah sealed the victory in the final moments of extra time on a swift counterattack, slotting a precise shot past Benin goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou from outside the penalty box, marking his third goal of the tournament.

Egypt’s Road Ahead

With the win, Egypt will remain in Agadir to face either Burkina Faso or defending champions Ivory Coast in Saturday’s quarterfinal. The Pharaohs, chasing a record-extending eighth AFCON title, will benefit from an extra day of rest before their next match.

Key Match Moments

• Marwan Attia opened the scoring with a curled effort from outside the box.
• Omar Marmoush had early chances blocked by Dandjinou.
• Egypt’s left back Mohamed Hamdy was forced off with a serious knee injury after a collision with Benin’s Dokou Dodo.
• Benin’s Dossou equalized late, pushing the game into extra time.

Despite the scare, Egypt’s dominance and tactical adjustments allowed them to finish strong, showcasing Mohamed Salah’s leadership and finishing ability.

AFCON 2025 Quarterfinal Schedule

• Friday: Mali vs Senegal
• Friday: Morocco vs Cameroon
• Saturday: Egypt vs Burkina Faso/Ivory Coast
• Saturday: Winner of Nigeria vs Mozambique will face Algeria/Congo winner

Egypt’s victory continues their strong performance in AFCON 2025, keeping alive hopes for another continental crown, as the Pharaohs aim to make history with their eighth championship.