Mohamed Salah scored a decisive goal in extra time to guide Egypt past Benin and into the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations, while Victor Osimhen led Nigeria to an emphatic victory over Mozambique in their last-16 match. Salah’s 124th-minute strike sealed a thrilling 3-1 triumph for the Pharaohs in Agadir, ending any doubt after Yasser Ibrahim had briefly restored Egypt’s lead in extra time.
Marwan Attia initially put Egypt ahead in the 69th minute with a superb side-foot finish from just outside the box, assisted by Mohamed Hany. Despite being ranked 57 places below Egypt, Benin equalized in the 83rd minute when Jodel Dossou converted from close range, following an excellent save from goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy. Extra time proved crucial for the Pharaohs, who were determined to avoid repeating their 2024 exit against the Democratic Republic of Congo on penalties. Salah’s late strike marked his third goal of the tournament, while Ibrahim’s header seven minutes into extra time gave Egypt the advantage needed to advance. Egypt will now remain in Agadir to face the winners of the quarter-final clash between title-holders Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso on Saturday.
“Before the game, I said there are no easy teams, and Benin were tough opponents. Egypt are a great team and I want to make my people happy,” said Pharaohs coach Hossam Hassan.
Meanwhile, Nigeria cruised to a 4-0 win over Mozambique in Fes, with Victor Osimhen scoring twice and Ademola Lookman assisting all the goals. Lookman opened the scoring in the 20th minute from an Akor Adams assist, while Osimhen restored his trademark face mask before scoring Nigeria’s second goal on 25 minutes. The Galatasaray striker then added a third goal shortly after half-time, continuing his impressive form after failing to score in seven previous Cup of Nations appearances. Adams completed the scoring in the 75th minute with another Lookman assist, securing the biggest win in an AFCON knockout match since Egypt defeated Algeria 4-0 in 2010.
“I am very happy. It was a good performance from the team, scoring four goals. There is lots to be happy with. Hopefully we can keep up the good work,” said Lookman, who was named man of the match. Mozambique exited the tournament but celebrated their first-ever progress to the knockout stage. Nigeria now prepare to face either Algeria or DR Congo in Marrakesh on Saturday, with the latter offering a chance for revenge after a World Cup qualifying defeat in November.
The final last-16 ties are set for Tuesday, with Algeria taking on DR Congo and Ivory Coast facing Burkina Faso in Marrakesh, shaping a highly anticipated quarter-final stage of the tournament.
By Yockshard Enyendi