Benin claimed their first victory of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign by beating Mauritania 2-1 on Tuesday, 29 September 2026.
The Guepards produced a determined performance at the neutral Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara d’Ebimpe, easing some of the concerns raised by their previous match.
Rodolfo Aloko was the decisive figure for Gernot Rohr’s side, scoring both of Benin’s goals to give them control of the second-round Group F fixture.
Mauritania, known as the Mourabitounes, reduced the deficit in the second half and threatened to recover from their difficult position. However, Benin’s defence held firm until the final whistle.
The back line, led by captain Sessi D’Almeida, remained organised and united as the Guepards secured three important points.
The result moves Benin provisionally into second place in Group F with three points, just behind the leaders. It also gives Rohr’s team a platform from which to compete for qualification to the pan-African tournament.
Mauritania, meanwhile, drop to third on goal difference after their positive start to the qualifying campaign was halted. They will need to respond at the next international gathering.
With the teams separated by little in the standings, the conclusion of the group is expected to remain tightly contested.
