Benin recorded their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations victory after a deflected first-half strike from Yohan Roche earned them a crucial win over Botswana in Rabat, reigniting their hopes in the AFCON 2025 campaign.
Roche combined brilliantly with returning striker Steve Mounie, who missed their opening defeat to DR Congo, before lofting a looping effort inside the penalty area that sailed over goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko to etch his name into Benin’s football history.
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The goal marked the nation’s maiden win in 16 AFCON matches across five appearances.
Botswana pushed hard for an equaliser and were inches away when Mothusi Johnson curled a superb free-kick against the crossbar. Phoko later produced two excellent saves after the break to deny Tamimou Ouorou, while also reacting sharply to block another dangerous strike following a heavy deflection.
The result leaves Group D open ahead of Tuesday’s decisive fixtures at 19:00 GMT, with Benin set to face Senegal in Tangier, while Botswana meet DR Congo in Rabat.