Gernot Rohr cut a figure of mixed emotion after watching his Benin side push Egypt all the way before falling 3–1 after extra time in Agadir.
His team matched the seven-time African champions for long spells, only bowing out in the additional 30 minutes after a fiercely contested Round of 16 tie.
Benin’s organisation and courage were on full display in the first half as they frustrated Egypt, defended compactly, and threatened on the break through the lively Aloko, Olaitan and Jodel Dossou. Goalkeeper Dandjinou produced several key saves, helping the Cheetahs reach the interval level despite Egypt’s pressure and the presence of Mohamed Salah.
After Marwan Attia’s powerful strike put Egypt ahead on 69 minutes, Benin refused to fold and deservedly equalised when Dossou pounced on a defensive mistake on 83 minutes to force extra time.
In the added period, experience told as Yasser Ibrahim’s looping header and Salah’s late counterattack finish finally killed Benin’s resistance.
“What we saw was a match that was a fight, a real battle, while still playing football. Two teams engaged in a tough contest. I saw a good football match,”
“When you look at the Egyptian individual players, we don’t have the same level. Especially since our best striker, Steve Mounié, was missing.
“I regret his absence, because in a match like this he would have helped us a lot, particularly in aerial play. But as head coach, I am proud of my players. I take away their attitude tonight, their solidarity and fighting spirit. That is very positive for the future of the Cheetahs,”
