AFCON: Salah on the Mark as Egypt Edge Benin After ET

In a tense Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2026 Round of 16 clash at Le Grand Stade Agadir in Morocco, Egypt advanced past Benin on January 5, 2026, thanks to a decisive moment in extra time. The match, kicking off at 7:00 PM local time, ended goalless after 90 minutes and regular time, forcing extra time to separate the sides[1][2].

Egypt, led by star forward Mohamed Salah, dominated possession but struggled to break down Benin's resilient defense. Salah was pivotal, registering multiple attempts on goal. Early in the game, his left-footed shot from the right side of the box was brilliantly saved by Benin keeper Marcel Dandjinou. Later, another Salah effort from the center of the box was blocked by a defender, while Rami Rabia had a close-range shot thwarted[2].

Benin posed threats on the counter, with Junior Olaïtan's long-range strike saved by Egypt's Mohamed El Shenawy, and Aiyegun Tosin missing a speculative effort from over 35 yards[2]. The first half remained deadlocked, mirroring the scoreline at full time: Egypt 0-0 Benin[2].

Extra time brought the breakthrough. Salah, true to his reputation, finally found the net, scoring the winner that sent Egypt through to the quarter-finals. Details of the extra-time goal highlighted his clinical finishing, "on the mark" as the headline noted, securing a narrow victory after a grueling encounter[1][3].

The match showcased Egypt's attacking prowess against Benin's stubborn resistance, with highlights capturing the intensity at Stade Adrar (also referenced as Le Grand Stade Agadir). Egypt's progression keeps their AFCON dreams alive, with Salah's heroics stealing the spotlight in this edge-of-the-seat duel[1][2][3].

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