AFCON: Roche redeems himself as Benin edge Botswana

Benin cruised to a 1–0 victory over Botswana in a Group D fixture at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Moroccan capital Rabat. Yohan Roche redeemed himself after a dreadful outing against DR Congo in the opening-day defeat, as he struck the winner for Benin against Botswana in the first half.

Benin came to the encounter boosted by the return of team captain Steve Mounie and Junior Olaitan. The Zebras made one change to the team that lost to Senegal on matchday one.

It was a slow start in Rabat, as the Cheetahs enjoyed more possession, while Botswana were more direct in their attack. Chances were limited at both ends due to the slow pace of the tie. Botswana were the first to make a meaningful attempt on goal, as Tumisang Orebonye, who was left free, skied his effort from close range in the 25th minute.

Three minutes later, Roche, against the run of play, linked up with Mounie to break the deadlock with the help of a deflection. Botswana tried to get back into the tie and came very close when a superb free-kick effort from Mothusi Johnson hit the crossbar in the 36th minute.

The second half saw the Cheetahs gain more control of the tie, with Botswana failing to play offensive football. Chances remained limited at both ends, but Benin managed to create more scoring opportunities than Botswana. Benin right-back Tamimou Ouorou’s low drive was parried away by Botswana custodian Goitseone Phoko, and Mounie squandered the rebound in the 64th minute.

Six minutes later, Phoko managed to stop a deflected strike from Ouorou. Botswana’s best chance of the half came from substitute Mothusi Cooper, but his strike went over the bar without troubling the Benin defence.

The West Africans bounced back from their matchday one defeat with a convincing win in Group D. They now await Senegal in their final group fixture as they target progression from the group stage. Botswana’s abysmal recent form means they now risk early elimination from AFCON ahead of their group closer against DR Congo.