Today, October 11, 2024, Benin and Rwanda go head-to-head in a crucial Group D match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. The game will take place at Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, with kickoff scheduled for 6 PM CAT.
Rwanda, under the leadership of German coach Torsten Spittler, is aiming to break their winless streak against Benin. The Amavubi have had a mixed start to their campaign, drawing 1-1 with Libya in Tripoli and holding Nigeria to a goalless draw in Kigali. Despite their recent form, Rwanda is yet to secure a win in the qualifiers.
Benin, managed by Gernot Rohr, started their campaign on a sour note with a 3-0 loss to Nigeria but bounced back with a 2-1 victory over Libya. Benin will be without key players David Kiki and Tosin Aiyegun due to injuries, which could impact their performance.
The match promises to be a tactical battle between the two German coaches. Benin’s attack, led by skipper Steve Mounie, will face off against Rwanda’s compact defense, marshaled by Ange Mutsinzi and goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari. Ntwari has been impressive, conceding just 2 goals in 8 games across all competitions.
Historically, Benin has the upper hand with three wins and two draws in their previous five meetings. However, Spittler has warned that it will be difficult for Benin to secure a win this time around, given Rwanda’s recent improvements under his tenure.
The game is crucial for both teams as they seek to enhance their chances of qualifying for the 2025 AFCON finals in Morocco. A win for Rwanda would significantly boost their confidence and standings in the group, while Benin aims to maintain their unbeaten run in this fixture and edge closer to securing an AFCON ticket.
