Benin have the tools to overcome Central African Republic, says Leon Klakla

Benin coach Leon Klakla believes the Guepards have the quality and attacking strength to make a strong start to their Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying double-header against Central African Republic.

The two sides meet in the third round of Group F qualifying on Thursday, 12 November 2026, with Benin aiming to strengthen their position at the top of the section.

Klakla, who holds a Uefa B licence, is confident Benin can take advantage of their current form and squad depth. He considers the fixture an important moment in Gernot Rohr’s side’s campaign and believes the team has the necessary resources to negotiate both matches successfully.

Benin have collected four points from their opening two games. They began with a 1-1 draw away to Burkina Faso before beating Mauritania 2-1. Those results leave the Guepards level on points with Burkina Faso, with both teams sharing first place in Group F.

Central African Republic, by contrast, have lost both of their matches and are yet to register a point.

Klakla has been encouraged by Benin’s performances so far, as well as by the decisions made by Rohr. He also believes the attacking options available to the national team can make the difference against their opponents.

The coach’s confidence is based on the quality of the players selected and the progress shown during the opening stages of the qualifying campaign. He expects Benin to use their attacking power while maintaining the discipline required across the two-match tie.

The first meeting will take place at the Olympic Stadium Alassane Ouattara in Ebimpe, Abidjan, on Thursday, with kick-off scheduled for 19:00 GMT. The return fixture is set for 16 November.

Klakla’s target is four points from the two matches. That would mean Benin avoiding defeat in the overall contest while taking advantage of their stronger start and current position in the group.

A victory in the first game would give the Guepards further momentum and consolidate their place at the top of Group F. It would also move them closer to their aim of reaching the final tournament of Africa Cup of Nations 2027.

Benin therefore have an opportunity to turn their early promise into a significant advantage in the qualifying race. Klakla believes the ingredients are in place, but Rohr’s players must now produce the results on the pitch against a Central African Republic side seeking its first points of the campaign.