Benin Republic kept their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) hopes alive with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Botswana on Saturday at the Stade Olympique de Rabat, securing their first win of the tournament, Bold Sports reports.
After suffering a narrow opening-day defeat to DR Congo, the Cheetahs responded with a disciplined and dominant performance, controlling large spells of the contest and doing just enough to claim all three points. Defender Yohan Roche proved the difference, scoring the only goal of the match in the first half.
Benin started on the front foot and were rewarded in the 28th minute. Captain Steve Mounie delivered a clever pass into the box to Roche, who took a composed touch before firing a right-footed effort that deflected past the Botswana goalkeeper to break the deadlock.
Gernot Rohr’s side continued to dictate the tempo after the break, enjoying the majority of possession and creating several chances to extend their advantage. However, a lack of clinical finishing meant Benin were unable to add to their lead, leaving the door slightly open for Botswana, who struggled to mount a meaningful response.
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Despite their dominance, Benin had to settle for a narrow win, a result that lifts them to third place in Group B with three points. Botswana, who had already suffered a 3–0 defeat to Senegal in their opening match, remain bottom of the group without a point, with their chances of progression now hanging by a thread.
Benin will now turn their attention to a decisive final group fixture against defending champions Senegal on Tuesday, while Botswana face DR Congo in their last bid to salvage pride and keep slim qualification hopes alive.
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