Benin will be without their newly signed attacking midfielder Felipe Silva Correa dos Santos for the upcoming friendly against Burkina Faso on Tuesday.
National team coach Gernot Rohr confirmed that Silva sustained an injury during training earlier this week, ruling him out of action.
The player also missed the team’s internal friendly match on Friday morning, which served as a final preparation for the clash against the Stallions.
Rohr explained that Silva requires specific treatment and a recovery period, meaning he will return to his club to focus on rehabilitation.
Despite the setback, the Benin squad maintained its schedule and traveled to Morocco with a reduced group of players, ready to face Burkina Faso without their new signing.
Silva’s absence will be felt as fans had eagerly anticipated his debut with the Cheetahs, expecting him to add creativity and attacking threat against the West African rivals.
The coach emphasised that the team remains focused and determined to deliver a strong performance despite missing the midfielder.
Rohr and his squad continue to work on tactics and team cohesion, using the friendly as an opportunity to test combinations and strategies ahead of future competitions.
Benin now faces the challenge of adapting their approach without Silva while ensuring they make the most of the squad at their disposal.
Supporters will have to wait longer before seeing Silva in action for the Cheetahs, but the coaching staff remains confident in the team’s ability to perform.
The friendly against Burkina Faso will serve as an important step in preparation and assessment for the national team ahead of the next competitive fixtures.
