AFCON 2025:Felipe Santos faces uncertainty ahead of tournament with Benin

Felipe Santos risks missing the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations as recurring injuries cast doubt over his availability for the Benin national team.

The striker, recently capped for the Cheetahs and included in the 30-man squad for the AFCON preparation camp, faces a critical period in determining his fitness ahead of the tournament.

Santos officially joined Benin’s national team in early November 2025 and quickly earned recognition as one of coach Gernot Rohr’s key attacking options.

His inclusion was seen as a boost for the team’s offensive strategy, with expectations that he could play a major role in the country’s campaign in Morocco.

However, injuries have repeatedly disrupted his progress. On 30 November 2025, shortly after returning to club action, Santos left the pitch after just 27 minutes of play.

This incident marked the beginning of a series of absences that have raised concerns among coaching staff and supporters alike.

Santos missed the Azerbaijan Cup match on 4 December 2025 and was again unavailable for a league fixture on 9 December 2025.

These consecutive setbacks highlight the uncertainty surrounding his fitness and ability to compete at the highest level in the upcoming tournament.

Benin’s coaching staff are closely monitoring his recovery, weighing medical assessments and training performance before confirming his participation.

The team faces a pressing challenge: preparing for AFCON 2025 while potentially losing one of its most promising attacking talents.

If Santos cannot recover in time, Benin may have to adjust its attacking options and tactics for the tournament.

The Cheetahs’ ambitions in Group B, where they will face stiff competition, could be impacted significantly without their emerging striker.

As the countdown to AFCON 2025 continues, all eyes remain on Santos and the national team’s medical staff, hoping he regains full fitness and can contribute to Benin’s campaign in Morocco.