Salah strikes late as Egypt edge Benin to reach AFCON quarter-finals
Mohamed Salah will remain on international duty a little longer after scoring late to seal Egypt’s 3–1 extra-time win over Benin, a result that sends the Pharaohs into the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals and delays his return to Liverpool ahead of a key Premier League week.
The Liverpool forward delivered the decisive moment in the closing seconds, finishing a counter-attack to put the contest beyond doubt after a tense knockout tie that had swung sharply in momentum.
Egypt had taken the lead midway through the second half when Marwan Attia struck from long range on 69 minutes, meeting a cutback at the edge of the area with precision. Benin responded late, with Jodel Dossou equalising in the 83rd minute to force extra-time and raise the stakes inside the stadium.
The result matters immediately for Egypt, who now move into the last eight and will face either Ivory Coast or Burkina Faso on Saturday. For Salah, the goal was his 10th at the Africa Cup of Nations, underlining his long-standing influence at the tournament and extending his stay in Morocco at a critical point in Liverpool’s domestic campaign.
The atmosphere reflected a classic knockout encounter, with Egypt controlling early possession and Benin pressing aggressively in transition. Salah was tightly marked throughout, often drawing multiple defenders and creating space for runners from midfield as the Pharaohs looked to impose their rhythm.
Chances came at both ends before the decisive moments arrived. Egypt tested Benin’s defensive organisation with set pieces and crosses, while Benin threatened on the break, forcing Egypt to stay compact and disciplined.
Extra-time brought clarity. In the 97th minute, defender Yasser Ibrahim restored Egypt’s lead with a powerful header, capitalising on sustained pressure and renewed belief after the late setback in regulation time.
As Benin pushed forward in search of another equaliser, spaces opened up. Salah exploited them ruthlessly, breaking forward on the counter and finishing clinically from distance in the dying seconds to complete the 3–1 scoreline and confirm Egypt’s progress.
The second half and extra-time told a story of control regained by Egypt after a nervy finish to normal time. Tactical patience, aerial strength, and Salah’s composure proved decisive as the match wore on.
The late goal removed any lingering doubt and allowed Egypt to close the contest professionally, while Benin were left to reflect on a valiant effort that ultimately fell short under sustained pressure.
For Egypt, the victory keeps their AFCON campaign firmly on track ahead of a demanding quarter-final. For Liverpool, Salah’s continued involvement means he is set to miss further fixtures, including clashes with Arsenal, Barnsley in the FA Cup, and Burnley, as the Reds navigate a challenging period without their leading forward.