Benin gave away an important two-goal lead on Thursday in their 2-2 draw against Zimbabwe from 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying.
The West African nation looked very determined, taking the game to Zimbabwe with striker Steve Mounié tormenting the Warriors goal area. The Cheetahs, managed by former Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr, shot themselves ahead after Augsburg striker Mounié capitalized on a goalkeeping error to slot home his first goal with just twelve minutes played.
The well-organized Benin side continued their onslaught in attack, making incursions and creating goal scoring chances. Their work rate paid off 35 minutes into the action with Smouha SC attacking midfielder Dokou Dodo firing in his side’s second goal of the evening from a fierce counter attack to make life difficult for Zimbabwe.
The Warriors however regrouped with their experienced forwards Knowledge Musona, Khamat Billiat and flank player Jordan Zemura bringing some life into their attack.
With just minutes to end the half, Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Marshall Munetsi gave the Warriors a glimmer of hope after managing to pull a goal back.
The second half began with Zimbabwe manager Michael Nees introducing Tawanda Chirewa for Prince Dube to refresh the midfield. The Warriors held their guns firmly, leading to the equalizer. Experienced Al-Okhdood winger Knowledge Musona swept in a great shot from the edge of the penalty area to tie the game on the 59th minutes.
After several attempts by both sides to find the back of the net, no goals were produced after the entire game. Notwithstanding the 2-2 draw, Benin went on top of Group C with 8 points, one better than Rwanda and South Africa and three ahead of Lesotho. Nigeria sit 5th on three points same as Zimbabwe who are bottom of the log.
The Warriors will next travel to the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo as guests of the Super Eagles of Nigeria on March 24. Benin will host South Africa on March 25 in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.
Group C Table
GP | Points | |
Benin | 5 | 8 |
Rwanda | 4 | 7 |
South Africa | 4 | 7 |
Lesotho | 4 | 5 |
Nigeria | 4 | 3 |
Zimbabwe | 5 | 3 |
The group winners qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Four of the nine group runners-up qualify for a playoff to determine Africa's representative at the intercontinental qualifying playoff.
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