CAN 2027 Qualifiers: Olaïtan says Burkina Faso will feel the pressure against Benin

“They are the ones under pressure. We will just do our job,” said the Benin midfielder after the Squirrels’ training session on Tuesday, September 22, in Abidjan. He urged his teammates to play with patience, while emphasizing that the goal remains to secure all three points.

Olaïtan also referenced a previous 3-0 defeat to the Stallions. According to him, the coaching staff and players need to review footage of that loss to identify mistakes to avoid repeating. Benin has prepared for this trip in Cocody before heading to Ouagadougou.

CAF confirms that this match marks the start of a six-match campaign in Group F. Captain Steve Mounié, who is injured, and defender Olivier Verdon, who is suspended, will miss this opening fixture. Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan will officiate the match. The Squirrels will then host Mauritania on September 29 in Abidjan.