2026 World Cup qualifiers: Warriors rally late to secure a dramatic draw against Benin

In a thrilling 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at Moses Mabhida Stadium on March 20, 2025, Zimbabwe fought back to secure a 2-2 draw against Benin.

The Cheetahs struck early, with Steve Mounié heading in a corner in the 11th minute, followed by Dodo Dokou’s clinical finish in the 35th. Zimbabwe, trailing 2-0, found hope just before halftime when Marshall Munetsi nodded in a Jordan Zemura free-kick in the 44th minute.

The Warriors’ resurgence continued in the 58th, as Knowledge Musona pounced on another Zemura set-piece to level the score. Despite late pressure, including a disallowed Musona effort and a stunning save from Benin’s keeper Marcel Dandjinou, the spoils were shared.

Zimbabwe’s resilience shone, but defensive lapses remain a concern. Benin, meanwhile, rued missed chances to reclaim the lead.

Group C Standings: Benin (8 pts), Rwanda (7 pts), South Africa (7 pts), Lesotho (5 pts), Nigeria (3 pts), Zimbabwe (3 pts).

Next Matches: Zimbabwe face Nigeria (March 25, 2025); Benin take on South Africa (March 25, 2025).