Benin U20 Amazons will look to move closer to a place in the last 16 of the Women’s U20 World Cup when they face Argentina in Group A on Tuesday.
The West African side earned a valuable point in their first appearance at the tournament after recovering from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Mexico.
Another positive result against Argentina in Katowice would put Benin within touching distance of the knockout stage and further enhance what has already been a memorable debut for the Francophone African nation.
Kick-off is scheduled for 13:00 GMT, with the match available to viewers in Benin on Benin TV and internationally on beIN Sports.
Benin arrive at the meeting with Argentina having demonstrated both resilience and efficiency in their opening game.
Mexico appeared to be in control after taking a 2-0 lead, with Alice Soto scoring in the 21st minute before Montserrat Saldívar doubled the advantage six minutes into the second half.
Mexico also dominated possession as Benin spent long periods without the ball.
But the Amazons refused to accept defeat.
Romaine Gandonou gave Benin hope when she won and converted a penalty in the 56th minute.
The forward then produced another decisive moment late in the game, taking advantage of an error in Mexico’s build-up in the 87th minute. She rounded the goalkeeper and finished to complete the comeback.
The result gave Benin their first-ever point at a Women’s U20 World Cup and provided an important boost ahead of their second Group A fixture.
Their next opponents, Argentina, are also looking for a response after suffering a 3-0 defeat against Poland.
However, the scoreline did not completely reflect the balance of the contest.
The defeat leaves Argentina under pressure to produce a result against Benin if they are to keep their hopes of progressing alive.
For Benin, however, their opening draw has created an opportunity to make history.
The Amazons can take another major step towards the knockout phase with a positive result in their second Group A match.
But their performance against Mexico also highlighted an area that will need attention.
Benin managed to survive with only 25% possession, showing considerable discipline and determination without the ball. Their comeback was built on taking advantage of key moments when they appeared to be heading towards defeat.
However, they also allowed Mexico to create 12 shots, four big chances and 29 touches inside the Benin penalty area.
That defensive workload will be a concern against an Argentina side that has already demonstrated an ability to create opportunities despite losing their opening match.
Benin therefore face a delicate balance in Katowice.
They will need to retain the patience and defensive organisation that helped them recover against Mexico, while ensuring they do not spend the entire game defending deep.
Argentina, meanwhile, will know that possession and chances must translate into goals after their failure to capitalise against Poland.
