Gernot Rohr names extended 30-man squad for Benin ahead of Burkina Faso friendly

Benin national team coach Gernot Rohr has unveiled an initial 30-player squad for the friendly match against Burkina Faso, scheduled for November 18 in Morocco during the FIFA international break.

The extended list reflects Rohr’s strategy to assess a broad pool of talent while gradually integrating fresh faces into the Cheetahs setup.

The squad balances experience and youth across all positions. In goal, Marcel Dandjinou and Saturnin Allagbé retain their status as first-choice options, joined by Serge Obassa and the returning Mariano Tchinonvi.

In defence, seasoned performers such as Olivier Verdon, Yohan Roche, and Mohamed Tijani provide stability, while young talent Jordan Lawson receives his first call-up, signaling Rohr’s focus on nurturing the next generation.

The midfield combines proven consistency and recalled talent. Sessi D’Almeida, Dodo Dokou, and Imourane Hassane will anchor the central areas, complemented by the return of Prince Ricardo Dossou and Ghislain Ahoudo.

Rohr’s selection also highlights attacking versatility. Veterans Aiyegun Tosin and Junior Olaïtan bring speed and directness, while first-time call-ups Felipe Santos, Ibrahim Salifu, and Adam Akimey offer new options up front.

Several players miss the squad due to injury or tactical reasons. Steve Mounié and Cédric Hountondji will sit out the camp following injuries, and Mariano Ahouangbo has not been included for strategic considerations.

Rohr emphasises that the current group, blending experienced players with newcomers, aims to build a competitive team capable of performing at continental and international levels.

The full 30-man squad includes:

Goalkeepers: Marcel Dandjinou, Saturnin Allagbé, Serge Obassa, Mariano Tchinonvi
Defenders: Rodrigue Fassinou, David Kiki, Jordan Lawson, Rachid Moumini, Tamimou Ouorou, Yohan Roche, Rabiou Sankamao, Mohamed Tijani, Olivier Verdon
Midfielders: Ghislain Ahoudo, Samadou Attidjikou, Sessi D’Almeida, Dodo Dokou, Prince Ricardo Dossou, Imourane Hassane, Rodrigue Kossi, Ibrahim Salifu
Attackers: Adam Akimey, Romaric Amoussou, Jodel Dossou, Andréas Hountondji, Junior Olaïtan, Razack Rachidou, Felipe Santos, Olatoundji Tessilimi, Aiyegun Tosin

The squad will gather for a training camp in Cotonou, which includes an internal friendly match to assess player performance.

Rohr will then reduce the roster to a final 25-man squad for the friendly against Burkina Faso in Morocco on November 18, 2025.