Benin Celebrates Historic First Win at Africa Cup of Nations
Benin achieved a historic milestone by securing their first-ever victory in the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), as Yohan Roche's deflected strike in the first half earned them their inaugural points in the 2025 tournament in Rabat.
Defender Roche executed a one-two pass with returning striker Steve Mounie, who had missed Benin's opening loss to DR Congo. Roche then delivered a looping finish from inside the box over goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko, marking a significant moment for his country as they celebrated their first win in their 16th Afcon match across five tournaments.
Botswana faced their second defeat of the group stage but were unlucky not to equalize when Mothusi Johnson struck a superb free-kick that hit the crossbar shortly after Roche's goal.
Phoko made two impressive saves in the second half, deflecting Tamimou Ouorou's shot and reacting quickly to block another effort from the right-back that took a heavy touch off Johnson.
Both teams will play their final matches in Group D on Tuesday at 19:00 GMT, with Benin set to face Senegal in Tangier and Botswana meeting DR Congo in Rabat.
Senegal and DR Congo, each currently holding three points, will compete in their second matches of the group when the favorites clash in Tangier later on Saturday at 15:00 GMT.