Benin x Botswana - Highlights, Summary and Match Report | OneFootball

In an intense Group Stage match of the CAN 2025, Benin secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Botswana. The fixture, which took place on December 27, 2025, saw both teams battling hard to gain an upper hand in the competition. Benin, playing at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, managed to clinch the win thanks to a solitary goal.

The decisive moment came in the 28th minute when Yohan Roche found the net with a precise right-footed strike from within the penalty area, putting Benin ahead. This goal proved to be crucial as Botswana struggled to find an equalizer throughout the match. Despite their efforts, Botswana's attack was unable to break through Benin's solid defensive setup.

Statistically, Benin showed a slight dominance in possession with 52% compared to Botswana's 48%. Benin also had a better day in terms of shooting, registering 10 shots with 4 on target, whereas Botswana managed only 5 shots with just 1 on target. The expected goals metric also reflected Benin's more threatening play, with a score of 1.41 against Botswana's 0.38.

Both teams had equal opportunities from corners, each having one, but it was Benin's efficiency in front of goal that made the difference. As the tournament progresses, Benin will look to build on this performance, while Botswana will have to regroup and come back stronger in their next fixture.

Incidents: The story of the match

1':

The match begins

7':

Missed opportunity. Aiyegun Tosin from Benin took a right-footed shot from the middle of the penalty area.

21':

Missed opportunity. Junior Olaïtan from Benin attempted a header from the middle of the penalty area.

26':

Missed opportunity! Tumisang Orebonye from Botswana took a left-footed shot from the center of the box after a set piece, but it went wide.

Benin takes the lead, 1-0 against Botswana. Yohan Roche scores with a right-footed strike from the heart of the penalty area.

28':

GOAL Benin: Yohan Roche (Benin) scores!

Yohan Roche scores goal number 1 in the competition (2 matches)

65':

Missed opportunity! Steve Mounié from Benin took a left-footed shot from just a short distance but it went wide to the left.

66':

Missed opportunity! Junior Olaïtan from Benin heads the ball from the center of the box, but it goes wide to the left. The cross was delivered by Olivier Verdon.

75':

Missed opportunity! Mothusi Cooper from Botswana took a right-footed shot from outside the penalty area, but it went wide.

90 +2':

Missed opportunity! Dodo Dokou from Benin took a right-footed shot from the center of the box, but it didn't find the target.

998':

The referee whistles for the end of the match