Benin grind past Botswana: Is this their best AFCON run yet?

At the Stade Olympique in Rabat, Benin delivered exactly what their campaign demanded: another result. The Squirrels’ 1-0 victory over Botswana wasn’t pretty, but in tournament football, ugly wins still count the same.

The decisive moment

Yannick Roche found himself in the right place at the right time midway through the first half. A corner routine from the left eventually broke to the striker on the edge of the area, and his low drive found its way through a forest of legs to nestle in the bottom corner.

It was clinical finishing in a match where chances were scarce, and it showcased Benin’s tournament mentality: create little, but take what you get.

Botswana’s frustration grows

For the Zebras, this competition has become an exercise in frustration. Two games, zero goals, zero points. They pressed high in the opening exchanges, showing encouraging energy, but their approach play consistently broke down in the final third.

Manager Mogomotsi Mpote switched to a more direct approach after falling behind, but Benin’s compact 4-5-1 shape absorbed everything thrown at them. The defensive line, marshalled impressively throughout, rarely looked troubled.

Tactical observations

Benin’s system revolved around patience and transitions. They allowed Botswana possession in non-threatening areas, then looked to break quickly through the channels. The wingers tucked inside to crowd central areas, forcing Botswana wide where their crossing struggled to find targets.

The second half became increasingly stretched as Botswana chased the game. Benin had opportunities to kill the contest on the counter but lacked the finishing touch that would have made the scoreline more comfortable.

What this means for Group D

With four points from two matches, Benin sit pretty in second place behind Senegal on goal difference. Their final group game against the Lions of Teranga will determine whether they qualify automatically or face an anxious wait as one of the best third-placed teams.

Botswana, meanwhile, must beat DR Congo in their final match and hope other results fall their way. It’s a mountain to climb, but stranger things have happened at AFCON.

Key stats

• Benin have kept clean sheets in both their AFCON 2025 matches
• Botswana have failed to score in their last three continental tournament games
• Roche’s goal was his third in international competition