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Date: Monday 5th January, 2026
Time: 5:00 pm
Stadium Stade Adrar
Referee Pierre Atcho (Gabon)
Goal Scorer:
Team News
Egypt
While Hassan utilised a back five in the final two group matches against Angola, the former legendary forward could return to a back four on Monday.
Reinstated after earning a rest against the Palancas Negras, Mohamed Salah, Omar Marmoush and Trezeguet should be named in the XI to lead the Pharaohs’ attack.
Although Trezeguet, influential in qualifying with four goals and one assist, has yet to score or set up any so far, Salah has scored two of the team’s three goals while Marmoush has netted the other, underlining their standing as the team’s match-winners.
Also likely to be reinstated for the North African giants is Mohamed Hany, who returns after serving a one-match suspension after receiving two yellows leading to a red against South Africa.
However, Mohanad Lasheen’s status is questionable after his withdrawal after 64 minutes last time out with what looked to be an injury.
Egypt possible starting lineup:
El Shenawy; Hany, Ibrahim, Rabia, Hamdi; Attia, Fathy, Zizo; Salah, Marmoush, Trezeguet
Benin
Sessi D’Almeida is an injury doubt for Benin, while Abdoul Rachid Moumini is suspended after accumulating yellow cards.
Despite failing to sparkle at AFCON 2025, the attacking onus rests on Steve Mounie, Junior Olaitan and Aiyegun Tosin.
Olaitan and Mounie were involved in five goals during AFCON qualifying, with the wide attacker contributing two assists, highlighting his creative threat.
Benin possible starting lineup:
Dandjinou; Ouorou, Verdon, Tijani, Roche; Imourane, Attidjikou; Tosin, Dodo, Olaitan; Mounie
Prediction: Egypt 3-1 Benin
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