Benin head coach Gernot Rohr has announced a 25-man squad for the decisive final two fixtures of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with key returns strengthening the Cheetahs ahead of their crucial clashes against Rwanda and Nigeria.
The squad, revealed on Friday, October 3, 2025, in Cotonou, sees striker Tosin Aiyégoun make a welcome return after recovering from the injury that kept him out of September’s international break.
Midfielders Kossi Rodrigue and Rodrigue Fassinou also rejoin the team after missing the previous camp.
Benin faces a stern test in their first encounter on October 10, when they travel to the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali to meet Rwanda.
Four days later, Rohr’s men conclude their qualifying campaign with a high-stakes showdown against Nigeria on October 14 — a fixture likely to play a decisive role in determining their World Cup fate.
The German tactician has opted for a blend of experience and youthful energy across all departments.
The goalkeeping unit features Marcel Dandjinou, Saturnin Allagbé Kassifa, and Serge Obassa, while the defensive line includes regular starters David Kiki, Cédric Hountondji, and Olivier Verdon.
The midfield options offer Rohr tactical flexibility, with Mattéo Ahlinvi, Sessi d’Almeida, and Rodrigue Kossi among the notable inclusions.
In attack, Steve Mounié and Jodel Dossou will spearhead the frontline, supported by returning forward Tosin Aiyégoun, whose pace and finishing could prove crucial in both encounters.
Benin’s campaign has reached a defining stage, and results in these final two matches will determine whether Rohr’s men remain in contention for a place at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Benin Squad
Goalkeepers: Marcel Dandjinou, Saturnin Allagbé Kassifa, Serge Obassa
Defenders: David Kiki, Cédric Hountondji, Rodrigue Fassinou, Tamimou Ouorou, Yohan Roche, Mohamed Tijani, Olivier Verdon
Midfielders: Mattéo Ahlinvi, Mariano Ahouangbo, Samadou Attidjikù, Sessi d’Almeida, Dodo Dokou, Imourane Hassane, Rodrigue Kossi
Forwards: Romaric Amoussou, Jodel Dossou, Andreas WE Hountondji, Steve Mounié, Junior Olaïtan, Razack Rachidou, Olatoundji Tessilimi, Aiyegun Tosin
