2027 U-23 AFCON Qualifiers: Benin knocked out in the first round

The U-23 Cheetahs will not continue their qualifying campaign for the 2027 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled to take place in Egypt.

Despite their 1–0 victory over Tunisia on Monday 5 October at the Kégué Stadium, Benin were knocked out in the first round. After a goalless first half, the Benin side came out of the dressing room with renewed determination.

Their dominance was finally rewarded in the 72nd minute. Kévin Alavo broke the deadlock with a superb strike from 25 metres, giving Benin a 1–0 lead and raising hopes of a comeback in this two-legged tie.

However, this victory proved insufficient. Having lost 2–0 in the first leg, the U-23 Cheetahs needed to win by at least a three-goal margin to turn the tie around and progress. But they failed to do so.

Benin are therefore out of the 2027 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers at the first round, despite this victory in the second leg against Tunisia.

For their part, Tunisia have secured their place in the second round. The young Tunisians will face Gabon.