Injury blow for Benin as Olivier Verdon withdraws from March fixtures

Benin defender Olivier Verdon has withdrawn from the national team squad ahead of the March international window due to injury, with teenager Jordan Lawson called up as his replacement.

The absence of Verdon, a regular starter and captain under Gernot Rohr, comes as a setback for the Benin national team as they prepare for two upcoming friendly matches.

The 30-year-old central defender, who plays his club football for Ludogorets Razgrad, sustained an injury earlier this week, prompting the coaching staff to adjust their plans.

His withdrawal leaves a gap in the heart of the defence at a time when the team is seeking stability and cohesion.

To fill that void, Rohr has turned to Lawson, an 18-year-old centre-back regarded as one of the promising emerging talents within the Beninese setup.

The young defender has previously been involved with the extended squad and is now given an opportunity to further establish himself at international level.

Benin are scheduled to play two friendly matches in Morocco as part of their preparations.

The first will take place on 27 March against Liberia, who step in as replacements for Palestine following travel difficulties linked to the conflict in the region. The second fixture, against Guinea, is set for 31 March.

These matches are seen as important for the team’s development, offering the coaching staff a chance to test tactical approaches and assess players ahead of future competitive fixtures.

Verdon’s absence is particularly significant given his experience and leadership. Having developed in France before building his career in Bulgaria, he has become a key figure in the squad and a reliable presence in defence.

His injury deprives the team of one of its most established players during a critical preparation period.

Lawson, meanwhile, represents a longer-term prospect. Born in Spain and eligible through his Beninese heritage, he recently joined SD Huesca in the Spanish second division after progressing through youth systems.

Having already indicated his commitment to representing Benin, he now has an opportunity to stake his claim for a more permanent role.

The upcoming fixtures will provide a platform for both established players and emerging talents as Benin look to strengthen their squad.