The preparations of Benin for their upcoming international friendlies have suffered a further blow after a second player withdrawal was confirmed, forcing head coach Gernot Rohr to adjust his plans.
Midfielder Rodolfo Aloko will miss the March international window after failing to secure the necessary visa to travel to Morocco, where the squad is currently based for its training camp.
The administrative setback comes at a crucial time, with the team already in camp and final preparations underway.
Aloko’s absence compounds an already difficult situation for the coaching staff, who had earlier been dealt a significant injury concern.
Central defender Olivier Verdon was forced to withdraw after picking up an injury while playing for his club, Ludogorets Razgrad.
The double setback leaves Benin without two players initially included in Rohr’s plans, disrupting continuity as the team builds towards its scheduled fixtures.
While Verdon’s absence has been addressed with the call-up of young defender Jordan Lawson, there has been no immediate replacement announced for Aloko.
The team, known as the Cheetahs, had already assembled in Morocco’s economic capital, Casablanca, for the training camp.
Aloko had been expected to join his teammates there but was unable to complete the necessary travel arrangements due to administrative complications.
Despite these challenges, there have been some positive developments within the squad.
The arrivals of Jodel Dossou, Yohan Roche and Mateo Ahlinvi have boosted numbers in camp, giving Rohr additional options as he reshapes his squad ahead of the friendlies.
Benin’s schedule has also undergone a slight adjustment. Initially set to face Palestine, the team will now take on Liberia national football team on March 27, before facing Guinea national football team on March 31.
These matches are expected to serve as important preparation opportunities, allowing the coaching staff to assess player combinations and tactical approaches.
However, the absence of key squad members, particularly due to injury and off-field issues, adds an extra layer of complexity to the exercise.
Nonetheless, the friendlies remain an opportunity for fringe players and recent call-ups to stake their claim.
With replacements stepping in and others arriving in camp, the Cheetahs will look to adapt quickly and maintain focus on their objectives.
As Benin continue their preparations in Morocco, the emphasis will now be on making the most of available resources and ensuring the squad is ready to compete, despite the setbacks.
