Egypt will look to assert their dominance when they face Benin in the Round of 16 at AFCON 2025 on Monday. Softfootball reported that the Pharaohs are fully focused on the knockout tie, with Egypt already posting on their X handle:
Preps for Benin: 𝗢𝗡𝗚𝗢𝗜𝗡𝗚 💪,
signalling their readiness for the challenge ahead.
On paper, Egypt’s group-stage campaign looked solid, with back-to-back clean sheets against South Africa and Angola. However, a deeper look shows the seven-time champions were tested defensively, conceding a high number of shots in both matches.
Context matters, though, as Egypt played much of the South Africa game with 10 men and rotated heavily against Angola.
Still, this clash against Benin is expected to provide a clearer measure of their true level, especially after qualification was sealed through a narrow win over South Africa via a late penalty and a subsequent draw with Angola.
Benin arrive with little pressure after advancing as one of the best third-placed teams. Their historic 1-0 win over Botswana was enough to reach this stage, but performances against Senegal and DR Congo exposed the gap between them and Africa’s elite. Facing Egypt in Agadir represents a much tougher test.
Team News
Egypt are expected to recall Mohamed Salah, Omar Marmoush and Trezeguet to lead the attack, while Mohamed Hany returns from suspension.
Possible Lineups
Egypt: El Shenawy; Hany, Ibrahim, Rabia, Hamdi; Attia, Fathy, Zizo; Salah, Marmoush, Trezeguet
Benin: Dandjinou; Ouorou, Verdon, Tijani, Roche; Imourane, Attidjikou; Tosin, Dodo, Olaitan; Mounie
Softfootball Prediction
Egypt 3-1 Benin. Despite Benin’s fighting spirit, Egypt’s quality and experience should prove decisive and secure a place in the quarter-finals.
