Benin under-17 team captain Hermione Lokossou says her side is “focused and calm” ahead of Monday’s FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifying clash against Sierra Leone as the West African nations continue their bid for a place on the global stage.
The first leg of the second-round qualifier will be played at the Kégué Stadium in Lomé, with Benin hoping to build momentum in a campaign that reflects the growing development of women’s football in francophone Africa.
Speaking shortly before the encounter, Lokossou projected confidence after the Beninese squad completed preparations and tactical analysis sessions with the coaching staff.
“The girls are focused and calm,” she said ahead of the meeting with Sierra Leone.
Benin’s preparations have included detailed video analysis of their opponents, with the coaching team working on ways to neutralise Sierra Leone’s direct style of play.
“The staff gave us instructions to avoid being caught off guard during the match. They are a very direct team, and we are preparing accordingly,” she added.
The tie represents another important step for a young Beninese side seeking to establish itself in African women’s football, where several nations from West and North Africa have made increasing investments in youth development structures.
Lokossou is among the players expected to lead the team both on and off the pitch.
The midfielder believes her experience with Benin’s U20 side can help guide younger teammates during the pressure of international competition.
“Qualifying for the World Cup is a huge achievement. I try to pass on my experience to the group. Before joining the U20s, I was already with these girls, and we grew up together,” said Hermionne Lokossou.
Her comments underline the continuity within Benin’s youth national teams, where players often progress together through different age categories while building chemistry and understanding.
For Benin, the match is also an opportunity to strengthen its reputation in women’s football across francophone Africa.
Countries such as Morocco, Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire have recently increased their visibility in women’s competitions, and Benin will hope its youth teams can follow a similar trajectory.
Sierra Leone, meanwhile, are expected to provide a difficult challenge with their physical and direct approach, forcing Benin to remain disciplined defensively while taking advantage of home conditions in neighbouring Togo.
Although the fixture is only the first leg, both sides know that gaining an early advantage could prove decisive in the race for qualification.
The atmosphere around the Beninese camp, however, appears calm rather than anxious, with Lokossou insisting the squad is mentally prepared for the occasion.
