CDM 2026 (Q): Benin top Group C ahead of Rwanda-Nigeria clash
Benin took the lead in Group C of the African qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, following their 2-2 draw with Zimbabwe on Thursday evening.
Les Guépards du Bénin posent pour une rencontre officielle
Gernot Rohr’s men had taken a comfortable lead thanks to Steve Mounié, who took advantage of a goalkeeping error to open the scoring, and Dodo Dokou, who scored before half-time. But the second half was more complicated for the Beninese Cheetahs, who let their advantage slip.
Zimbabwe responded before the break with a goal from Marshall Munetsi, before Knowledge Musona equalised in the second half with a superb strike after a well-constructed team move.
With this draw, Benin now have eight points and top spot in Group C. But the battle remains tight, with Rwanda and South Africa, who have a game in hand, close behind on seven points apiece.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles, currently struggling, will have a precious opportunity to revive their fortunes this Friday against Rwanda. A win would take them to six points, closing the gap on the group leaders ahead of a crucial duel with bottom-placed Zimbabwe.