What Small Businesses Can Learn from Egypt’s Resilience Against Benin: Strategies to Win Government Contracts

The recent AFCON 2025 Round of 16 match between Egypt and Benin offers powerful lessons in resilience, strategic patience, and seizing critical opportunities—qualities small businesses can apply to succeed in federal contracting.

Persistence Over Perfection

Egypt’s performance was not flawless—they faced a disciplined Benin defense and went through periods of frustration and missed chances. Similarly, small businesses entering federal markets should expect challenges like complex regulations or tough competition. The key is perseverance—maintaining consistent effort to meet procurement requirements and continuing to refine proposals despite setbacks.

Patience in the Face of Resistance

Benin’s compact, aggressive defense slowed Egypt’s usual pace, forcing the Pharaohs to be patient and adapt their game plan. Small federal contractors often face bureaucratic inertia and drawn-out procurement timelines. Patience and strategic adjustments—like tailoring offerings to agency needs or improving compliance—are vital.

Capitalizing on Critical Moments

Egypt eventually broke through in the 70th minute with a well-executed set piece and decisive finishing, demonstrating the importance of timing and preparation. In government contract pursuits, this translates to identifying windows of opportunity such as upcoming RFPs aligned with your capabilities or prime contracting subcontracts, then preparing thoroughly to respond decisively.

Leveraging Team Strengths and Experience

Stars like Mohamed Salah combined experience and skill to secure victory in high-pressure moments. For SMBs, this means leveraging internal expertise and partnerships—whether through teaming arrangements or mentor-protégé programs—to enhance credibility and performance in federal procurements.

Managing Risks and Recovering Quickly

When Benin equalized late in the game, Egypt managed to regroup and find late goals to clinch the win. Likewise, small businesses should have risk mitigation and recovery plans to handle compliance slips, proposal rejections, or contract challenges, enabling them to bounce back stronger.

Practical Takeaways for Federal Contracting Success

• Register and Stay Current on SAM.gov: Just as Egypt maintained focus during tough moments, SMBs must keep their System for Awards Management (SAM) profiles updated to capitalize on procurement leads.

• Explore GSA Schedules and Set-Aside Programs: Utilize existing government contracting vehicles and small business programs to level the playing field and secure opportunities faster.

• Prioritize Compliance and Documentation: Egypt’s discipline parallels the need for strict adherence to federal acquisition regulations—ensure proposals, pricing, and performance metrics meet government standards.

• Build Relationships and Network Strategically: Just as teamwork won the day for Egypt, SMBs should cultivate relationships with contracting officers, prime contractors, and agency personnel for insight and competitive advantage.

• Monitor Procurement Trends: Stay informed about agency priorities and budget cycles, akin to Egypt’s study of their opponent’s play, to anticipate opportunities and tailor capabilities accordingly.

In conclusion, the Egypt vs. Benin match exemplifies resilience, strategic patience, and seizing the moment—attributes that small businesses can mirror to navigate the complexities of federal contracting and ultimately secure government contracts. By adopting a persistent, compliant, and adaptive approach, SMBs can increase their chances of success in this competitive arena.

GovScout helps small businesses break into federal contracting. We simplify SAM.gov, surface winnable contracts, and give you the insights to grow in the public sector. Learn more at govscout.io.