The Cheetahs of Benin have sent a strong message to Libya ahead of their decisive 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group D qualifier in Tripoli on Monday. With both teams vying for the group’s final qualification ticket, captain Steve Mounié and coach Gernot Rohr emphasized their determination to overcome any potential off-field distractions.

Benin need only a draw to secure their first AFCON appearance since their 2019 quarterfinal run, while Libya must win by at least two goals. Both teams are also relying on Nigeria, who have already qualified, to defeat Rwanda in Uyo on the same day.

Tensions are high, given Libya’s history of off-pitch tactics. Last month, Libya delayed Nigeria’s arrival for over 15 hours at an abandoned airport. The incident prompted the Super Eagles to refuse to play, leading CAF to award Nigeria a 3-0 victory and fine Libya.

Recalling past experiences, Mounié issued a fiery warning:
“We quickly forget Sierra Leone where we were fooled. We lost an AFCON in this episode. The Libyans cannot do the same thing again. Otherwise, we will leave like the Nigerians and win the match.”

Coach Gernot Rohr also revealed Libya’s attempts to move the game to synthetic pitches in Benghazi, a move Benin successfully opposed.
“They tried to move the match to Benghazi, but we refused. On the field, we’ll know how to respond. I trust this team’s impeccable spirit,” Rohr stated.

Libya, who last appeared in the tournament in 2012, will be desperate to make a comeback, but Benin remain confident in their ability to claim the AFCON spot.