AFCON 2025: Benin back on the African stage
Benin returns to AFCON 2025 with ambition: Steve Mounié as leader, a strong group and genuine chances to cause an upset. Full analysis.
Steve Mounié@Megasports
In Cotonou, in cafés as in hair salons, the same question comes up: what can Benin hope for at AFCON 2025? As the tournament approaches, enthusiasm is palpable. After a few up-and-down years on the continental stage, the Cheetahs are back in competition.
The draw is no gift: Senegal, DR Congo and Botswana will make up Group D. A major challenge, certainly, but Benin has already shown — notably in 2019 — that it can defy the odds when the stakes are high.
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In recent international campaigns, Benin has shown notable progress, displaying more rigor and stability in its performances. Enough to fuel some optimism ahead of AFCON 2025.

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Steve Mounié, the captain who sets the tempo
A central figure of the squad, Steve Mounié embodies experience and consistency.
His leadership, aerial power and ability to make a difference in decisive moments make him a major asset for the Cheetahs.
Under Gernot Rohr’s guidance, the team appears to have gained in rigor and maturity. The German coach stresses tactical discipline — a framework in which Benin often performs effectively.