The matchday at the Africa Cup of Nations got underway with a decisive encounter in Group D, where Benin edged past Botswana with a narrow but vital 1-0 victory — a result that effectively ended Botswana’s hopes of progressing further in the tournament.

Benin enjoyed the initiative for large spells and were rewarded in the 28th minute. Left-back Yoane Roche found himself in an advanced position and finished clinically from close range after a delivery from the left flank — his own side’s attack catching the Botswana defence off guard.

Looking ahead to the final round of group fixtures, Benin face a daunting challenge against reigning heavyweights Senegal, while Botswana will conclude their Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a meeting against DR Congo.

2025 Africa Cup of Nations

Benin - Botswana 1:0 (1:0)
Goals: Roche Y., 28 (1:0)

Benin: Dandjinou; Ouorou; Roche Y.; Verdon; Tijani M.; D'Almeida (Attidjikou, 54); Imourane; Dodo Doku; Olaitan Junior; Tosin (Aloko R., 82); Mounie S.
Substitution: Attidjikou (from 54); Aloko R. (from 82)
Bench: Allagbé; Obassa; Ahlinvi; Moumini; Kiki D.; Azongnitode; Ahoudo; Fassinou; Kossi R.; Amoussou; Dossou; Tessilimi; Akimey
Yellow Cards: Ouorou 85

Botswana: Phoko; Ditlhokwe; Gaolaolwe; Velaphi; Johnson M.; Mohutsiwa (Maponda, 86); Ditsele (Cooper, 46); Seakanyeng; Kebatho (Sesinyi, 59); Orebonye (Boy, 46); Ratshkudu (Baruti, 46)
Substitution: Cooper (from 46); Boy (from 46); Baruti (from 46); Sesinyi (from 59); Maponda (from 86)
Bench: Dambe; Kgosipula; Leinanyane; Molefe; Kopelang; Ngada; Ramotse; Modingwane; Kgamanyane; Enosa
Yellow Cards: Seakanyeng 13; Ditsele 44