As the race for Morocco 2025 intensifies, Benin’s national team, the Cheetahs, are gearing up for two high-stakes Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifying matches. Under the guidance of manager Gernot Rohr, the team faces a make-or-break moment in the qualifiers, with clashes against Nigeria on November 14 and Libya four days later. To strengthen the squad, Rohr has recalled five key players, bringing both experience and fresh talent as they aim to secure an Afcon spot.

Returning players include David Kiki, Serge Obassa, Lenny Pirringuel, Tosin Aiyegun, and Ryan Adigo. Their inclusion will be crucial in the Cheetahs’ final bid to clinch a place at Morocco 2025. However, Rohr faces a setback with the absence of defensive pillar Cedric Hountondji, ruled out due to injury. In Hountondji’s absence, seasoned defender Olivier Verdon is set to anchor the back line.

The Cheetahs’ 23-man squad also features experienced strikers Steve Mounié and Steve Traore, with veteran goalkeeper Saturnin Allagbe joined by the returning Obassa and Marcel Dandjinou. The squad is expected to leave everything on the pitch, as winning both upcoming fixtures is their only path to Afcon qualification.

Benin National Team Squad for Afcon Qualifiers

Goalkeepers: Serge Obassa, Marcel Dandjinou, Saturnin Allagbe
Defenders: Fassinou Rodrigue, David Kiki, Rachid Moumini, Ouorou Tamimou, Yohan Roche, Tidjani Mohamed, Olivier Verdon
Midfielders: Ryan Adigo, Mattéo Ahlinvi, Mariano Ahouangbo, Ghislain Ahoudo, Romaric Amoussou, Almeida Session, Dodo Dokou, Imourane Hassane, Junior Olaitan
Forwards: Dossou Jodel, Andreas Hountondji, Steve Traore, Steve Mounié, Lenny Pirringuel, Tosin Aiyegun