Benin are set to take on Morocco in a highly anticipated international friendly this Monday, with head coach Gernot Rohr expected to field a competitive side as the Cheetahs look to challenge one of Africa’s top-ranked teams.
The match, part of this month’s FIFA international window, offers Benin a significant test against a Moroccan squad that continues to build momentum under the leadership of Walid Regragui.
While the fixture may be labelled a friendly, it carries strategic importance for both teams as they prepare for future qualifiers and tournaments.
Having spent several days in camp preparing for the fixture, the Beninese national team have now arrived in Morocco with their eyes set on delivering a solid performance.
For Rohr, the match represents a valuable opportunity to assess his squad’s depth and resilience against elite opposition.
The German coach is expected to field a starting XI that blends experience with youthful energy, as he looks to strike the right balance ahead of more competitive matches later in the year.
According to early reports from within the Beninese camp, the following line-up is likely to start against the Atlas Lions:
Benin (probable line-up):
Obassa – Ouorou, Tijani, Verdon, Roche – Hassane, D’Almeida, Dokou – Olaïtan, Rachidou – Mounié
Saturnin Allagbé Obassa is expected to take his place in goal, providing a reliable presence between the posts. In defence, Youssouf Ouorou and Cedric Hountondji Tijani are likely to occupy the full-back roles, with Olivier Verdon and David Kiki Roche set to anchor the central defensive pairing.
The back four will be tasked with absorbing Morocco’s attacking pressure, particularly given the hosts’ fluid style of play.
In midfield, a trio featuring Abdoulaye Hassane, Jordan Adéoti D’Almeida, and Junior Dokou is expected to provide a mix of defensive stability and creative support.
Their role will be critical in transitioning play and disrupting Morocco’s rhythm in the middle of the park.
Up front, Rohr could opt for a forward line led by experienced striker Steve Mounié, supported by Jodel Dossou Olaïtan and Rachidou on the flanks.
Mounié’s physical presence and aerial ability will be key in Benin’s attempts to unsettle the Moroccan defence, while the wingers will aim to exploit spaces on the counterattack.
Though not a competitive fixture, Monday’s clash presents a valuable chance for Benin to measure themselves against one of the continent’s strongest footballing nations.
For Rohr and his staff, it is an opportunity to fine-tune tactics, test player combinations, and build morale within the squad.
The Cheetahs have made clear their intention to use this match as a stepping stone toward stronger performances in the future.
With a well-prepared line-up and a desire to compete, Benin will look to surprise a Moroccan side that comes into the encounter with confidence and form on its side.
Kick-off is scheduled for Monday evening, with both teams aiming to make the most of this international window as part of their broader competitive preparations.
