Africa Cup Of Nations | Saturday December 27 | Group D
- Benin 1-0 Botswana
- DR Congo Vs Senegal- 18:00 (EAT)
Yohan Roche will forever be remembered in Benin football history after his decisive strike delivered the nation’s first-ever Africa Cup of Nations win, ending years of continental frustration.
Under the watchful eye of Ugandan referee Shamirah Nabadda, Benin showed purpose from the opening whistle.
An early effort from Aiyegun Tosin was ruled offside in the fourth minute, but it was clear Benin were determined to seize their moment.
The breakthrough came in the 28th minute. Steve Mounié’s precise pass found Roche, whose shot, taking a slight deflection, beat Botswana goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko.
The goal settled Benin’s nerves and put them on course for a historic three points.
Both teams had entered the match seeking redemption after opening defeats, Botswana lost 3-0 to Senegal, while Benin fell 1-0 to DR Congo.
Botswana fought back, with Kabelo Seakanyeng testing the Benin defence and Mothusi Johnson hitting the crossbar with a long-range free-kick just before halftime.
The Zebras pushed harder after the break, with coach Morena Ramoreboli making three changes to inject energy.
Yet Benin stayed composed and dangerous on the counter. Tamimou Ourou nearly doubled the lead midway through the second half, only to be denied by Phoko, while Botswana’s best late effort sailed narrowly over the bar.
When the final whistle blew, history was made. Benin had claimed their first AFCON win in 16 attempts, earning three priceless points and rewriting their tournament story. Botswana, meanwhile, slipped to a fifth consecutive AFCON defeat.
The win lifts Benin to third in Group D with three points, level with DR Congo and Senegal, who face each other later at 18:00 EAT.
