Mohamed Salah's Egypt faces Benin on Monday in the round of 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations, in a clash between an African football giant and an ambitious underdog. The Pharaohs, favorites on paper, will nevertheless have to be wary of the Beninese Cheetahs, who are determined to seize their opportunity.

Solid and consistent throughout the group stage, the Egyptians finished top of Group B, confirming their status as serious contenders for the title. Led by their star Mohamed Salah, the Egyptian national team is eager to recapture its glorious past. Holders of the record for AFCON titles with seven trophies, Egypt is still chasing an eighth title, which has eluded them since 2010.

Having been runners-up in 2017 against Cameroon (2-1) and then in 2021 against Senegal (0-0, 4-2 on penalties), the Pharaohs approach this Moroccan edition with a strong desire for revenge. It's difficult to imagine elimination in the round of 16 for such an experienced team, accustomed to major tournaments.

But standing in their way are the Cheetahs of Benin, who qualified as one of the best third-placed teams. Gernot Rohr's men have nothing to lose and intend to make them work for it. Despite a heavy defeat against Senegal (3-0) in the group stage, Benin remains a team capable of causing problems for any opponent thanks to its organization and commitment.

This round of 16 match looks lopsided on paper, but potentially tricky on the pitch. Egypt, with its attacking trio of Salah, Marmoush, and Trezeguet, will need to rely on its experience and clinical finishing to avoid any upsets against a Benin side ready to pull off a major upset.