AFCON 2027: Benin thrash Central African Republic and close in on qualification

12.11.26 FT AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations

Benin

4

:

Central African Republic

1

Benin were in fine form against the Central African Republic. At the Félix-Houphouët-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan, Gernot Rohr’s men secured a convincing 4-1 victory on Thursday, November 12, in the third round of AFCON 2027 qualifying.

The Cheetahs take control early

Benin made their intentions clear from the opening minutes. In the 7th minute, Imourane Hassane opened the scoring to give his side the perfect start. The Central African Republic, however, found a way to equalise in the 19th minute through Louis Mafouta. But the Cheetahs were undeterred. Rodolfo Aloko restored Benin’s lead in the 31st minute, before Tosin Aiyegun made it 3-1 five minutes later, with an assist from Yamirou Ouorou. Gernot Rohr’s men had already built a substantial lead by half-time.

Benin continued to look dangerous after the break. In the 56th minute, Tosin Aiyegun found the net again, this time from a pass by Junior Olaitan. That fourth goal put the Cheetahs firmly in control of the match. The score remained 4-1 until the final whistle.

Benin remain top ahead of the return fixture

With this win, Benin now have seven points after three rounds, with two wins and a draw. The Cheetahs therefore retain top spot in Group F and remain unbeaten.

The Central African Republic, by contrast, remain on zero points after three matches. The two teams will meet again in Douala next Monday for the return leg. Another Benin win could bring Gernot Rohr and his players closer to their goal: securing a place at AFCON 2027.

Aliou Toundé |

Editorfr

Related teams and leagues

Benin

Central African Republic

AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations