Benin midfielder Dokou Dodo has played down reports of an exceptional financial incentive ahead of his side’s Africa Cup of Nations Round of 16 meeting with Egypt on Monday, insisting he has no knowledge of any bonus promised for victory.
Speaking amid growing speculation in Benin’s media, Dodo addressed claims that the federation president had earmarked a 300,000 dollar reward to motivate the squad for the knockout tie against the seven-time African champions.
The defender made it clear that such reports had not been communicated to him or his team-mates as preparations intensify for the decisive encounter.
“I have no information at all about the exceptional bonus mentioned by the press in Benin in the event we beat Egypt,” Dodo said in an interview with MBC Masr 2.
The 21-year-old midfielder acknowledged the magnitude of the task facing Benin, describing Egypt as one of the continent’s most formidable sides with a rich tournament pedigree.
“The Egypt national team is a big and great team. They are seven-time African champions, and the match against them will be very difficult,” he stated.
Dodo also reflected on Benin’s recent setback at the tournament, following a 3-0 defeat to Senegal in the group stage.
“We made a big effort against Senegal, but unfortunately they were better, so they deserved to win,” he said, as Benin look to respond positively in the knockout phase.
Turning attention to Egypt’s attacking threat, Dodo highlighted the quality within the Pharaohs’ forward line.
“Egypt’s attack is very strong with the presence of Salah, Marmoush, and Zizo, and facing them will be very difficult,” he noted.
“We know all the Egyptian players, and we will prepare with full strength to face the Pharaohs,” he added.
Dodo also provided an update on the fitness of Benin captain Steve Mounié, whose availability remains uncertain.
“He suffered from influenza, and the medical staff are racing against time to get him ready for the game against Egypt,” he confirmed.
Benin will face Egypt on Monday, January 5, 2026, in the Round of 16 with a place in the quarter-finals at stake, seeking to defy the odds against one of Africa’s most decorated national teams.
