The final matchday of Group D in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers promises high drama as Benin and Togo face off in a decisive derby in Cotonou on Sunday, March 24. The Squirrels of Benin and the Sparrowhawks of Togo will battle for pride, points, and, in Benin’s case, a chance to secure a place in the continental tournament.
For Benin, a draw will be enough to ensure qualification for the AFCON finals for the fourth time in the nation’s history, following previous appearances in 2004, 2008, and 2010. The team is determined to capitalize on the opportunity, with players fully aware of the significance of the fixture. Steve Mounié, the Huddersfield striker and key figure for the Squirrels, spoke to Benin Foot about the importance of the game. “It’s always an honor to play for Benin. We know this match is going to be crucial. It’s a final on home soil. We’ll have to manage this match like men, like mature professional footballers. We can’t do anything rash. We already have our ghosts from the past, like that match against Mali where we suffered a heavy defeat. We have to learn from those experiences. We’ll need the support of the entire nation, a fiery atmosphere in the stadium to galvanize us.”
Mounié continued, emphasizing the pride and responsibility of representing his country. “We want to make the people proud by qualifying. To proudly represent Benin on a continental scale. That’s why we play for Benin. It’s very important. We’re going to give it our all,” he said. His words reflect the mindset of a team focused on discipline, unity, and taking advantage of home conditions to secure a historic result.
The Stade de l’Amitié Mathieu Kérékou has historically been a fortress for Benin. The Squirrels have not lost at home for seven years, a streak that includes previous victories over Togo. Notably, during the 2008 AFCON qualifiers in Ghana, Benin defeated Togo 4-1 in Kouhounou, a result that helped secure their place in the tournament. This historical precedent adds confidence as Benin prepares to face the Sparrowhawks once again.
Benin currently sits second in Group D with seven points, just ahead of Togo and Gambia, who both have five points, and trailing group leaders Algeria. A strong performance against Togo will solidify their qualification and send a clear message to the continent that the Squirrels are serious contenders in African football. For Togo, the match represents a do-or-die situation, adding to the intensity and competitive tension of the encounter.
With national pride, continental ambition, and a supportive home crowd in their favor, Benin enters the fixture with determination and focus. The match is expected to be a tactical and emotional battle, with both teams aware of the high stakes. Fans can expect an electrifying atmosphere as the Squirrels seek to continue their unbeaten streak at home and secure a return to the Africa Cup of Nations finals, while the Sparrowhawks will be looking to upset their hosts and advance their own qualification hopes.
As the countdown to kick-off begins, all eyes will be on Cotonou for this crucial clash, which has all the ingredients of a thrilling African football showdown.
