U20 Women's World Cup: Benin's Amazons continue their preparations in France
Benin's U20 Amazons are intensifying their preparations for the 2026 FIFA U20 Women's World Cup. After nearly a month of hard work in Cotonou, the Beninese squad landed in France on Monday, August 10, 2026.
Final adjustments before the World Cup
The Beninese delegation has set up camp in Corbeil-Essonnes, รle-de-France, for a three-week training stint. This stage marks the final major phase of preparation before heading to Poland, where the tournament kicks off on September 5. Head coach Ouzรฉrou Abdoulaye is now working with the 24 players selected to represent Benin at the World Cup.
The coaching staff's goal is now to build on the progress made in Cotonou and prepare the players for the rigors of a World Cup. Friendly matches are scheduled throughout the camp in France. These games will help the Amazons find their rhythm, develop their chemistry, and test themselves against tougher opposition ahead of the tournament.
Benin to face Mexico, Argentina, and Poland
For their first-ever appearance at a U20 Women's World Cup, Benin will compete in Group A. The Amazons will go up against Mexico, Argentina, and host nation Poland. Mexico brings a wealth of experience, with 11 U20 World Cup appearances and four quarter-final runs to their name.
Argentina will be making their fifth appearance, with their best finish being a round of 16 spot in 2024. Poland, meanwhile, is also making its debut in the competition. As hosts, they will be able to count on strong home support.
Our analysis
This training camp in France comes at the perfect time for the Amazons. After several weeks of preparation in Benin, the squad now needs to test itself on the international stage. The friendlies will be particularly valuable for Abdoulaye Ouzรฉrou and his staff as they gauge the true level of their team and address any lingering weaknesses.
For this young squad, the aim is also to gain valuable experience before stepping onto the world stage. The World Cup will be a new adventure for Benin, but this preparation should help the Amazons arrive with more confidence and a stronger sense of identity. The date is now set for September 5 in Poland, marking a historic first for Beninese women's football on the global stage.