Benin achieved a historic milestone at the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) 2025 with a 1-0 victory over Botswana in Rabat, marking their first-ever tournament win in normal time.
Match Highlights
Defender Yohan Roche became the hero for the Cheetahs, scoring his first competitive international goal on his 13th Afcon appearance. The decisive moment came in the first half when Roche combined with returning striker Steve Mounie before firing a deflected shot over Botswana goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko.
Botswana nearly equalized shortly after when Mothusi Johnson rattled the crossbar with a brilliant free-kick. Phoko kept his team in contention with crucial saves, including denying Tamimou Ouorou and intercepting another dangerous attempt deflected by Johnson.
Tournament Context
Both teams entered the match seeking redemption after opening defeats – Benin fell to DR Congo, while Botswana lost to Senegal. Benin coach Gernot Rohr reinforced his squad with key players like Mounie and goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou, while Botswana's Morena Ramoreboli handed a start to teenage forward Losika Ratshukudu.
The win revitalizes Benin's hopes of advancing from Group D, where third place could still secure knockout qualification. In 2019, Benin reached the quarter-finals without winning a group-stage match in regulation time.
Looking Ahead
Benin will face Senegal on Tuesday in Tangier, while Botswana meets DR Congo in Rabat. With Senegal and DR Congo both on three points, the group remains tightly contested.
As the Cheetahs celebrate breaking their Afcon curse, Rohr's squad eyes further progress in Morocco – potentially replicating their 2019 surprise run.
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