Both sides came into this game having previously struggled to perform on this stage, with Benin having never won in regulation time at any previous AFCON and Botswana having never won at all.
Benin thought they’d got off to a perfect start with just four minutes on the clock, but unfortunately for them, Aiyegun Tosin’s opener was ruled out for an offside in the build-up.
The Cheetahs didn’t allow that disallowed goal to dampen their spirits though, and they continued to press for an opener, which they found with just under half an hour played. The goal came courtesy of Yohan Roche, who rifled a right-footed effort into the roof of the net from around the penalty spot.
Botswana went agonisingly close to finding an equaliser 10 minutes before the break, when they were awarded a free-kick on the edge of the Benin penalty area, but Mothusi Johnson’s effort rattled the crossbar.
Benin started the second half well, gaining total control in the opening 20 minutes.
Following the early domination, they came close to doubling their lead on 65 minutes through Tamimou Ouorou, who saw his left-footed effort saved in the bottom-left corner by Goitseone Phoko.
He then went close again five minutes later, as he tried his luck from the edge of the penalty area, but his shot was saved comfortably by the Botswana stopper.
As the game entered the final 10 minutes, Benin remained on top as they looked to add a second goal.
Ultimately, they were unable to find it and had to settle for a 1-0 victory, going level with Senegal and DR Congo ahead of their clash later this afternoon, meaning the Cheetahs will more than likely need to beat Senegal on Tuesday if they wish to advance.
Botswana’s fate was sealed, however, with the Zebras going into their match with DR Congo looking to avoid a second consecutive AFCON appearance in which they lose all three group games.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Yohan Roche (Benin)
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