AFCON2023Q: Rohr’s Benin hold defending champions Senegal

Gernot Rohr’s tutored Benin held reigning African champions Senegal to a 1-1 draw in a highly anticipated clash at the Stade de l’Amitié in Cotonou in their 2023 CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier on Saturday night.

In the absence of Kalidou Koulibaly, Sadio Mané donned the captain’s armband, while Koulibaly provided support from the substitutes’ bench. A revamped Teranga Lions took to the pitch with Nicolas Jackson, Abdoulaye Seck, and Seny Dieng in the starting line-up, but they were held in check by Cheetahs.

Senegal have already secured their place in the tournament in Cote d’Ivoire, while Benin sought to secure victory to bolster their qualification hopes under the guidance of coach Rohr.

Defender Abdoulaye Seck put the visitors into the lead, before Abdoul Rachid Moumini’s shot restored parity. Benin’s equaliser not only secured them a valuable point but also marked a notable achievement, as no team had managed to snatch points from the African champions in this group of qualifiers.

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With the final matchday on the horizon, Benin’s qualification hopes now rest on their performance against Mozambique at the Estádio da Machava.

“Both teams displayed exceptional football. One team showcased the qualities of the reigning African champion, while the other, our Benin team, demonstrated character by responding to Senegal’s challenge,” Benin coach Gernot Rohr.

“We grew stronger throughout the match; although we were dominated in the first half, we managed to break free and impose our game in the second half. I was truly impressed by the fighting spirit of my team, and we must continue in this manner.”