Benin Takes on Rwanda in 2025 AFCON Qualifier

The football teams of Benin and Rwanda are set to face off in a crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny on Friday, October 11, 2024. This match is critical for both teams as they aim to secure their spots in the tournament slated for 2025.

Benin, known as the Cheetahs, will enter the match with renewed confidence after bouncing back from a 3-0 defeat against Nigeria with a 2-1 victory over Libya. This win places them second in Group D with three points. Coach Gernot Rohr emphasized the importance of maintaining their home ground advantage in Abidjan, where Benin has historically performed well. “We’ve played in Abidjan thrice. We’ve been lucky enough to win each time, and we’d like to continue this way,” Rohr stated.

Gernot Rohr’s squad will be bolstered by the return of central defender Mohamed Tijani, who had been sidelined due to injury. Jodel Dossou, currently unattached to any club, is also expected to play a significant role in the attack, supported by other key players like Steve Mounie.

On the other hand, Rwanda, known as the Wasps, is still seeking their first win in the qualifiers. Their campaign started with a 1-1 draw against Libya, followed by a goalless draw with Nigeria. Under the guidance of their German coach, the team’s recent form has shown promise, remaining unbeaten in their last three matches. “To win against this Rwandan team, it won’t be easy. It was already difficult in June, when we won 1-0, and it will be even more difficult tomorrow. But we believe we can do it,” Rohr remarked regarding the upcoming fixture.

Rwanda will face a challenge without the presence of midfielder Djihad Bizimana and forward Jacques Tuyisenge due to disciplinary reasons. With their AFCON history limited to a single appearance in 2004, the Wasps are eager to change their fortunes in the qualifiers and strengthen their position in Group D.

For the lineup, Benin is expected to start with Dandjinou in goal, with defenders like Khaled Adenon steering the defense, while Rwanda’s lineup might include Ntwari as the goalkeeper, flanked by Omborenga and Mutsinzi in the backline.

This match is crucial for both teams, as Benin aims to solidify their position for qualification, while Rwanda seeks to secure their first victory in the current round of qualifiers.