Benin Republic’s preparations for next month’s decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers have been dealt a heavy setback after teenage forward Rodolfo Aloko was ruled out with a knee injury.

The 18-year-old Charlotte FC talent limped off during Benin’s 1–0 win over Lesotho on Matchday 8, collapsing in the 50th minute before being stretchered off. It was only his second consecutive start for the Cheetahs, but he had already made an impact by providing his first assist at senior international level.

Head coach Gernot Rohr confirmed on local station Canal 3 Benin that scans revealed a meniscus injury requiring surgery. “Unfortunately, we have a more serious injury, that of Rodolfo. He needs surgery and will likely miss the upcoming matches in October,” Rohr said. “It’s sad news because he was improving, with two very convincing performances.”

Aloko’s absence leaves Benin without one of their most exciting young attacking options for the crunch clashes away to Rwanda and then against Nigeria’s Super Eagles in Uyo.

Despite the setback, the Cheetahs remain firmly in contention for a historic World Cup spot. They sit second in Group C on 14 points, just three behind leaders South Africa—and could yet move top if FIFA upholds a disciplinary complaint that might deduct three points and three goals from the Bafana Bafana for fielding ineligible midfielder Teboho Mokoena in March’s 2–0 win over Lesotho.

Benin travel to Kigali for Matchday 9 before closing their qualifying campaign with the high-stakes encounter against Nigeria in October, hoping to keep their dream of a first-ever World Cup appearance alive.