Benin vs Botswana: Yohan Roche goal gives Benin 1–0 halftime lead in AFCON 2025 qualifier

27.12.25 FT AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations

Benin

1

:

Botswana

0

Benin have given their AFCON 2025 campaign crucial lifeline after taking 1-0 lead into half-time against Botswana in their Group D Matchday 2 encounter at the Stade Olympique de Rabat.

With both nations arriving into the contest pointless, the opening 45 minute carried intense pressure and it was Benin who showed greater composure when it mattered most.

Roche Strikes as Benin capitalise before the break

The breakthrough arrived in the 28th minute when defender Yohan Roche finished from close range after well-worked move steering right-footed effort into the roof of the net following assist from captain Steve Mounié.

It was moment of clinical execution Benin lacked in their opening fixture and it immediately shifted the momentum forcing Botswana out of their defensive shell.

Botswana Hit back

Botswana did not retreat after conceding and came agonisingly close to restoring parity in the 36 minute.

Midfielder Mothusi Johnson unleashed powerful left-footed free-kick from distance that crashed off the crossbar.

The first half unfolded as physical affair, with challenges flying in across midfield.

Botswana were shown two yellow cards:

• Kabelo Seakanyeng (13’)
• Lebogang Ditsele (44’)

Benin by contrast reached the interval without booking, a potentially significant advantage as tension rises in the second half.

Halftime stats snapshot

Despite Botswana’s moments of threat, Benin edged control statistically:

• Possession: Benin 60.2% – 39.8% Botswana
• Shots on target: 1 – 1
• Total attempts: 4 – 4
• Fouls: 9 – 9
• Corners: Benin 1 – 0

With the pressure mounting on both teams to qualify in Group D.. Second half will be true test of the teams composure and their ability to manage the game as their hopes of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations hang in the balance.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

Related teams and leagues

Benin

Botswana

AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations