Benin’s Africa Cup of Nations hopes dashed by Malawi in penalty shootout
Benin will not be joining the continent’s elite at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco after a narrow defeat on penalties to Malawi in the second round of qualifying. Like fellow qualifiers Congo, the Squirrels of Benin were unable to capitalise on their first-leg advantage and fell short in a tense return leg on Malawian soil.
The match, played in front of an enthusiastic home crowd, was fiercely contested with Malawi’s Flames showing relentless energy and determination. The only goal of the game arrived early, in the 14th minute, when John Banda found the net to give Malawi the crucial lead. Despite sustained efforts, neither side could break the deadlock for the remainder of the match.
With the aggregate score tied, the fate of the tie was decided by a penalty shootout, where Malawi’s composure and skill proved decisive. The Flames outscored Benin in the shootout, ending the visitors’ hopes of reaching the 2015 tournament.
Benin coach Didier Ollé-Nicolle and his squad will now return home to Cotonou disappointed but with valuable lessons to carry forward. The starting lineup featured a mix of experienced and emerging talent, including goalkeeper Fabiyi Emmanuel, defenders Didier Sossa, Fortuné Orè, and Khaled Adénon, midfielders Seidou Barazé and Stéphane Sessègnon, as well as forwards Désiré Azankpo and Mohamed Aoudou.
This loss marks a tough end to Benin’s qualifying campaign, highlighting the fine margins in African football where a single missed opportunity or penalty can determine a nation’s continental destiny. Meanwhile, Malawi’s victory secures them a spot at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, bringing great pride to the Flames and their supporters.
