Defending champions Egypt booked their place in the last eight of the Africa Cup last night by defeating Mozambique 2-0 in a Group C match in Benguela, Angola.

The Pharaohs wrapped up their second win in two games courtesy of a Dario Khan own goal early in the second half and a late effort by substitute Mohamed 'Gedo' Nagy.

They have six points from three matches, while Nigeria moved into second place on three points after they stopped Benin 1-0.

Mozambique slipped a goal down in the 47th minute when defender Khan again put the ball through his own goal off a powerful low cross from the right by Egypt's Ahmed Fathi.

It was the unfortunate Khan's second own goal in as many matches in the tournament after also scoring against his own team in Tuesday's 2-2 draw with Benin.

Egypt had to wait until the 81st minute before they could double their lead.

Nagy, a second-half replacement for Mohamed Zidan, took his chance very well when he smashed home a left-footed shot into the roof of the Mozambique goal from inside the 18-yard box.

Egypt made only one change from the side which started against Nigeria on Tuesday with Hossam Ghaly giving way to Zamalek playmaker Shikabala, while Fumo started ahead of the experienced Dario Monteiro in the Mozambique line-up.

Earlier in the day, Nigeria needed a penalty to beat a spirited Benin and secure their first Group C victory at the Africa Nations Cup.

Yakubu Aiyegbeni, after fluffing several early chances, netted in the 42nd minute to give the World Cup-bound Nigeria a much-needed win after they had lost their opening game to Egypt.

The penalty was awarded after a handball by defender Romuald Boco, who stopped a header on goal by Peter Odemwingie.

Benin twice hit the woodwork with blistering shots from Stephane Sessegnon in the first half and Nouhoum Kobena after the break and kept Nigeria on the back foot for much of the game.

Group C: Egypt 6; Nigeria 3; Benin, Mozambique 1.

Playing today: (Group D) Cameroon vs Zambia; Tunisia vs Gabon.