Benin will host Rwanda in a crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at Stade de l’Amitié on Friday evening. Benin, led by Gernot Rohr, will look to build on their recent victory against Libya, while Rwanda aims to secure their first win of the campaign.
Match Preview
After a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Nigeria in their opener, Benin bounced back with a 2-1 victory over Libya. The Cheetahs overcame a penalty setback in the ninth minute, responding with goals from Steve Mounie and Junior Olaitan to secure three points. This result places Benin second in Group D, and they will be eager to capitalize on a double-header against Rwanda to solidify their position for AFCON qualification.
Rwanda, on the other hand, is still searching for a win in the AFCON qualifiers, having secured two draws so far. A 1-1 draw against Libya and a goalless result versus Nigeria have kept the Wasps unbeaten, but Torsten Spittler’s men know they need more than just draws to advance. Rwanda has shown defensive resilience but will need to find a way to score more consistently to challenge Benin.
Team News
- Benin: Steve Mounie, the Cheetahs’ talisman, will lead the attack supported by Junior Olaitan, Dodo Dokou, and Jodel Dossou. Defensively, the experienced quartet of Olivier Verdon, Cedric Hountondji, Yohan Roche, and Rachid Moumini is expected to start again.
- Rwanda: The Wasps will be missing midfielder Rafael York and forward Hakim Sahabo due to disciplinary reasons. Innocent Nshuti, who scored Rwanda’s only goal in this qualifying campaign, will likely be the focal point in attack, supported by Muhire and Kwizera.
Predicted Lineups
- Benin: Dandjinou; Roche, Verdon, Hountondji, Moumini; D’Almeida, Imourane; Olaitan, Dokou, Dossou; Mounie
- Rwanda: Ntwari; Omborenga, Mutsinzi, Manzi, Niyomugabo; Rebangouka, Bizimana; G. Mugisha, Muhire, Kwizera; Nshuti
Prediction
Benin, with home advantage and a more potent attack, is expected to be too strong for Rwanda. The Wasps have struggled to create clear chances in their two opening matches, while Benin’s quality in attack, led by Mounie, should see them score goals. A solid defense is likely to help them maintain control of the game as well.
Predicted score: Benin 2-0 Rwanda.
