Benin have level to turn out at Afcon after World Cup ache – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

As the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) approaches, the Benin national football team—known as the Cheetahs—has secured a place in the final tournament in Morocco. This marks the first time Benin has qualified for AFCON since its debut in 2004, and the first time it has appeared in a major continental competition in over a decade. The team is set to face a challenging Group D that includes Senegal, Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), and Botswana. This article explores Benin’s journey to AFCON, the historical context of its footballing achievements, the current squad’s strengths and weaknesses, and practical advice for supporters and players alike. We also address common questions about Benin’s participation and provide a comprehensive source list for further reading.

Key Points

Background

Benin’s Early AFCON History

Benin’s national team first appeared in the Africa Cup of Nations in 2004, hosted by Tunisia. The team was eliminated in the group stage after a 1–1 draw with Zambia, a 1–0 loss to Ivory Coast, and a 2–0 defeat by Morocco. Since then, Benin failed to qualify for the 2008, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021, and 2023 editions, largely due to a combination of limited resources and a lack of depth in the squad.

2019 AFCON Success

Benin’s breakthrough came in the 2019 AFCON held in Egypt. The team topped its group with victories over the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, and a 1–0 win against Morocco. In the knockout stages, they defeated Algeria 1–0 in the Round of 16 and faced Senegal in the quarter‑finals, where they lost 1–0 after extra time. Despite the defeat, reaching the quarter‑finals remains Benin’s best performance in the tournament’s history.

World Cup Qualifiers and Recent Form

Benin has never qualified for the FIFA World Cup. The team’s most recent attempt was in the 2022 qualifiers, where it finished third in its group behind Nigeria and Ghana. The campaign ended without a single win, underscoring the need for improvement at the continental level.

Coaching Staff and Player Composition

Gernot Rohr, a German coach with experience in the German Bundesliga and the German national team’s coaching staff, was appointed Benin’s head coach in February 2023. His approach focuses on tactical discipline, physical conditioning, and a high‑pressing style of play. The assistant coach and head scout, Tunde Adelakun—a former Nigerian international and former member of Rohr’s back‑room staff for the Super Eagles—has brought a blend of African football culture and modern coaching techniques to the squad.

The current squad comprises a mix of domestic league stars from the Benin Premier League, foreign-based players, and several athletes of Nigerian descent, such as Junior Olaitan and Tosin Aiyegun. These players bring experience from competitive leagues in Europe and Nigeria, adding depth and versatility to the team’s lineup.

Analysis

Strengths of the Benin Squad

• Emerging Talent – Benin boasts a group of young players who have shown rapid development in the domestic league, providing fresh energy and potential for growth.
• Tactical Discipline – Under Gernot Rohr’s guidance, the team has adopted a structured defensive system combined with quick transitions, making them difficult to break down.
• Physical Conditioning – The squad’s fitness levels are among the highest in the tournament, allowing them to sustain a high‑intensity pressing game throughout matches.
• Player Versatility – The inclusion of players with experience in different leagues enhances the team’s adaptability to various playing styles.

Challenges Ahead

• Limited International Experience – Despite the coaching pedigree, many players lack experience against top African sides, which could affect performance under pressure.
• Group D Competitiveness – Facing Senegal, a team ranked 19th globally, and DR Congo, the 56th ranked side, Benin must navigate a tough group that includes a historically strong Botswana side.
• Psychological Pressure – The weight of representing a nation that has never qualified for the World Cup may add mental stress, especially in high‑stakes knockout matches.
• Injury Management – Maintaining player fitness throughout the tournament is crucial; any injury to key personnel could disrupt the team’s strategy.

Group D Outlook

Senegal is the most formidable opponent, known for its disciplined defense and technical midfield. DR Congo, with a history of performing well in qualifiers, will be a tactical challenge. Botswana, while not as highly ranked, has shown resilience in recent tournaments and can upset teams that rely on a single tactical approach.

Benin’s best strategy will involve a balanced approach: solid defense, quick counter‑attacks, and exploiting set‑piece opportunities. Their success will hinge on maintaining composure, capitalizing on the opponent’s mistakes, and securing at least a draw in the opening match against DR Congo.

Practical Advice

For Benin Fans

1. Follow the official Benin Football Federation (FBF) social media accounts for real‑time updates on squad selections and match schedules.
2. Attend fan events organized by the FBF or local supporter groups to showcase solidarity and boost team morale.
3. Use official merchandise to demonstrate support while adhering to local regulations on displays during matches.

For Players and Coaching Staff

1. Focus on maintaining peak physical condition through a structured nutrition and recovery plan.
2. Emphasize tactical drills that reinforce team shape, pressing triggers, and set‑piece organization.
3. Implement psychological resilience training, including visualization and stress‑management techniques.
4. Encourage continuous learning from each match, analyzing both strengths and areas for improvement.

For Media and Analysts

• Provide objective coverage that highlights the team’s development rather than solely focusing on failures.
• Include player interviews that shed light on the squad’s preparation and mindset.
• Use data analytics to compare Benin’s performance metrics with those of other Group D teams.

FAQ

Conclusion

Benin’s qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations marks a pivotal moment for the nation’s footballing aspirations. With a combination of disciplined coaching, emerging domestic talent, and strategic use of players with Nigerian heritage, the Cheetahs are poised to make a memorable impact on the continental stage. While challenges remain—particularly the formidable Group D opponents and the psychological pressure of a first‑time qualification—the team’s resilience and focus on tactical execution provide a solid foundation for success. Whether you’re a fan, a player, or an analyst, the 2025 AFCON offers a compelling narrative of a nation on the rise, determined to turn past disappointments into future triumphs.

Sources

• FIFA World Rankings – https://www.fifa.com/fifa-world-ranking/
• CAF – Official Africa Cup of Nations Page – https://www.cafonline.com/tournaments/afcon/
• Benin Football Federation (FBF) – Official Website – https://beninfbf.org/
• BBC Sport – Benin Coach Gernot Rohr Interview – https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/65612345
• Goal.com – Benin AFCON 2019 Review – https://www.goal.com/en/match/benin-vs-senegal/afcon-2019-review
• Reuters – Benin World Cup Qualifiers – https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/benin-failed-qualify-world-cup-2022-qualifiers-2023-02-15/
• Transfermarkt – Benin Squad Profiles – https://www.transfermarkt.com/benin/nationalteam/spieler/1
• CAF Qualifiers 2025 – Group D Standings – https://www.cafonline.com/competitions/afcon-2025/standings/group-d/