Benin vs Botswana prediction, H2H and probable lineups - December 27, 2025
One of the matches in the second round of the Africa Cup of Nations group stage will take place on Saturday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, where Benin will square off against Botswana. We’re offering a bet on the outcome of this clash with solid chances for a win.
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Match preview
Benin have returned to the Africa Cup of Nations after a six-year absence, but their campaign got off to a narrow defeat against DR Congo (0-1). That marks a third consecutive match without finding the back of the net, and the overall attacking picture for the "Cheetahs" remains worrying. Over their last 15 matches in AFCON finals, Benin have not recorded a single win in regular time. To keep their hopes alive for advancing from the group, a victory over Botswana is absolutely crucial.
Benin’s defense looks more reliable, but their lack of creativity going forward makes them vulnerable even against less formidable opponents. Their main hope is the experienced Jodel Dossou, who, despite picking up a yellow card in the opener, is expected to lead the team forward. The possible return of Olaitan and Dandjinou could further strengthen the squad.
Botswana suffered a heavy defeat in their opener against Senegal (0-3), failing to register a single shot on target. That’s the team’s fifth loss in their last six outings, with three of those matches ending without a goal. The "Zebras" are trying to compensate for their attacking struggles with disciplined defending, but even that falls apart under the pressure of top-tier sides.
Goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko pulled off 14 saves against Senegal, yet even that wasn’t enough to prevent a heavy loss. Botswana are expected to line up again with a packed midfield, sticking to a 4-1-4-1 formation with Omaatla Kebatho leading the line. However, considering their poor scoring record, expectations remain modest.
Probable lineups
- Benin: Allagbe, Moumouni, Verdon, Roche, Ouoro, D’Almeida, Imourane, Aloko, Dodo, Dossou, Ayegun
- Botswana: Phoko, Velaphi, Gadlaolwe, Ditlhokwe, Johnson, Ditsele, Mohutsiwa, Cooper, Seakanyeng, Orebonye, Kebatho
Match facts and head-to-head
- Neither team scored in the first round.
- Benin have failed to score in three straight matches, while Botswana have drawn blanks in three of their last five games.
- This is the first ever meeting between Benin and Botswana.
Prediction
Both teams are struggling in attack and come into this match without a goal to their name. Given the tournament pressure and the lack of cutting edge up front, we can expect a cautious, tight affair.
