WAFCON (Q): “We’re not delusional,” says Benin coach Abdoulaye Ouzerou before Nigeria clash

With just a few days to go before the much-anticipated clash against Nigeria, the head coach of the Benin Amazons, Abdoulaye Ouzerou, has unveiled his list of twenty-four players selected for the double-header in the final qualifying round of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

During a press conference, Ouzerou displayed clear-eyed realism about the magnitude of the challenge facing his team. He intends to rely on collective strength against the ten-time African champions.

“We’ll count on their hearts, because if you’re physically and technically inferior, you have to compensate mentally. And for me, mentally, they are ready. We’ll rely a lot on that mental strength,” he said. Fully aware of the gap between the two teams, Ouzerou acknowledged Nigeria’s superiority while maintaining faith in his players’ fighting spirit.

“There’s no comparison in terms of physical and technical ability we know that, we’re not delusional. But as I’ve said, mentally, I believe we can make up for it on all those fronts,” he added.

A new face joins the squad: Alicia Assogba, goalkeeper for FE Mérignac Arlac in France. Her arrival brings fresh energy and increases competition for a key position between the posts.

Benin Squad List

Goalkeepers: Allassane Sourakatou, Ogoun Diane, Assogba Alicia Gnonlonfoun

Defenders: Ahouassou Marguerite, Orou Karo Kadidjath, Hessanon Martine, Abikou Laura, Ebi Deo-Gratias, Sadikou Nailatou, Moumouni Rachidatou, Vidinhouédin Estelle

Midfielders: Hounhouè Ruth, Adingni Déborah, Abamon Noëlie, Tengue Lucie, Djibril Yasminath, Techri Joceline
Forwards: Gbedjissi Aude, Gnammi Yolande, Sadikou Milhad, Gandonou Romaine, Honfo Germaine, Fachinan Léa