Egypt vs Benin in a straight knockout test in the AFCON 2025 Round of 16 at Stade Adrar, Agadir. The Pharaohs enter as clear favourites after topping their group with controlled displays and defensive solidity; Egypt’s blend of experienced internationals and tactical discipline under the coaching staff means they should control possession and the tempo.
Benin arrive with little to lose and plenty of organisation. The Cheetahs qualified for the knockout rounds through resilience and a strong defensive shape, but they have struggled for goals in the tournament — coach Gernot Rohr also confirmed injury issues and a suspension that complicate selection.
Expect Benin to defend deep, look for set-piece opportunities and try to spring counterattacks when possession is won.
Egypt vs Benin Time, Starting XI, Match Info
| Match | Egypt vs Benin |
|---|---|
| Competition | AFCON 2025 – Round of 16 |
| Date | Monday, 5 January 2026 |
| Kick-off | 16:00 GMT (17:00 local / 18:00 EET) |
| Venue | Stade Adrar (Le Grand Stade d’Agadir), Agadir, Morocco |
Head-to-Head (Egypt vs Benin)
Egypt have historically dominated Benin. The nations have met only a few times in competitive fixtures, and Egypt have won the majority of those encounters — there is no extended rivalry here, so past results suggest psychological advantage lies with the Pharaohs, but head-to-head history is limited enough that current form and matchday availability will be decisive.
Team News
Egypt Team News
- Squad & availability: Egypt named a 28-man squad for AFCON; the group contains the expected senior core and attacking options. Mohamed Salah was rested for the final group game and remains in the manager’s plans — he is available for selection. The coaching staff have balanced rotation with keeping key players fresh for the knockouts.
- Tactical note: Egypt will likely set up to dominate midfield possession and play fast combinations around the penalty area. Expect them to use wing play and late midfield runs into the box rather than relying on long balls. Monitor the coach’s final XI for how aggressive the front three will be.
Benin Team News
- Injuries & suspension: Benin coach Gernot Rohr has confirmed injury concerns within the squad and at least one suspension from accumulated cards, which limits selection options, especially in midfield and attack. Key forward Steve Mounié’s fitness has been highlighted in previews; if he is unavailable or less than 100%, Benin’s attacking threat is reduced.
- Tactical note: With absences limiting creative choice, Benin are expected to deploy a compact defensive shape, focus on set pieces and look for quick transitions through the flanks. Discipline in midfield and aerial organisation at the back will be their priorities.
Egypt vs Benin Possible Starting XIs
- Egypt possible starting lineup: El Shenawy; Hany, Ibrahim, Rabia, Hamdi; Attia, Fathy, Zizo; Salah, Marmoush, Trezeguet
- Benin possible starting lineup: Dandjinou; Ouorou, Verdon, Tijani, Roche; Imourane, Attidjikou; Tosin, Dodo, Olaitan; Mounie
Key Players (two each)
Egypt
- Mohamed Salah (RW / striker) — Egypt’s primary attacking talisman; his movement and finishing make him the single biggest match-winner. If he’s on the pitch and in form, Egypt’s chances rise sharply.
- Marwan Attia / Zizo (midfield) — The midfield engine: they control tempo, recycle possession and supply the front three with incisive passes. Their discipline will be vital against Benin’s counter threats.
Benin
- Steve Mounié (striker) — The focal point in attack. If fully fit, his physical presence and aerial threat give Benin a route to goal on set pieces and knockdowns.
- Junior Olaitan / Aiyegun Tosin (forwards/wingers) — Provide the pace and individual skill to exploit turnovers; their ability to run in behind will be key on the counter.
Tactical Analysis
Expect Egypt to control through midfield positional superiority and patient build-up. They will probe Benin’s compact block, look for overloads on the wings and aim to create high-quality chances rather than many speculative shots.
Benin will prioritise defensive organisation, fouling to disrupt rhythm and aiming to convert set pieces or transition moments. If Benin can keep the game tight through the first hour, the match could remain low-scoring and be decided by a single moment or a set-piece.
Egypt vs Benin Prediction
- Predicted Score: Egypt 2–0 Benin.
Rationale: Egypt’s greater squad depth, attacking quality and overall tournament form make them favourites to advance. Benin’s injuries and suspension problems reduce their attacking options, and while they are organised, their difficulty in scoring against top opposition makes a Benin upset unlikely. A tidy Egypt win without conceding is the most probable outcome.
Where to Watch
- Africa / MENA: CAF broadcast partners (check local listings and SuperSport where available).
- UK / Europe / US: BeIN Sports / regional broadcasters and streaming partners carry AFCON rights in many territories — check national TV schedules and official AFCON broadcasters.
- Live updates: Use FotMob, Sofascore or the official CAF match centre for live lineups and minute-by-minute coverage.
