Gernot Rohr has announced Benin’s 25-man squad for September’s decisive 2026 World Cup qualifying fixtures against Zimbabwe and Lesotho.
The German tactician unveiled his selection on August 28 during a press conference at the Gani Room of Cotonou’s Novotel Hotel, where anticipation among media and supporters was palpable.
With two pivotal matches ahead, Rohr stressed the importance of securing points as Benin seeks a historic first-ever qualification for the World Cup.
The Cheetahs, currently third in Group C with eight points, are level with Rwanda and five points adrift of leaders South Africa, making this international window critical to their campaign.
Rohr’s side will first face Zimbabwe at the Ebimpé Stadium in Ivory Coast on September 5 at 18:00 GMT, before meeting Lesotho at the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium on September 9 at 21:00 GMT. Both fixtures will be played on neutral ground, further intensifying the stakes.
Full Squad Announcement
Goalkeepers: Saturnin Allagbé (Chauray, France), Marcel Dandjinou (Kruger United, South Africa), Serges Obassa (Remo Stars, Nigeria).
Defenders: David Kiki (Steaua Bucharest, Romania), Rachid Moumini (Sumqayit, Azerbaijan), Cédric Hountondji (Bandırmaspor, Turkey), Mohamed Tijani (Yverdon, Switzerland), Yohan Roche (Petrolul, Romania), Olivier Verdon (Ludogorets, Bulgaria), Tamimou Ouorou.
Midfielders: Sessi d’Almeida (Neftçi Baku, Azerbaijan), Mattéo Ahlinvi (Arsenal Tula, Russia), Dodo Dokou (Leixões, Portugal), Mariano Ahouangbo (Olimpija Ljubljana, Slovenia), Samadou Attidjikou (Smouha, Egypt), Imourane Hassan (Grasshoppers, Switzerland), Rodrigue Kossi (Hassania Agadir, Morocco), Rodolfo Aloko (Kustošija, Croatia).
Forwards: Junior Olaitan (Grenoble, France), Candas Fiogbé (Atalanta, Italy), Steve Mounié (Augsburg, Germany), Aiyegun Tosin (Lorient, France), Andréas Hountondji (St. Pauli, Germany), Razak Rachidou (Sobemap), Jodel Dossou.
Rohr’s selection blends European-based experience with locally nurtured talent as the Cheetahs prepare for what could prove a defining chapter in their footballing history. Striker Steve Mounié, a mainstay in Benin’s attack, returns to lead the line, while the likes of Aiyegun Tosin and Junior Olaitan provide added attacking depth.
The midfield unit features a mix of strength and creativity, with players such as Sessi d’Almeida and Rodrigue Kossi expected to anchor play, while Rodolfo Aloko and Imourane Hassan add versatility. In defence, Olivier Verdon and Cédric Hountondji bring leadership and consistency, with Rohr relying on their experience to keep Benin’s backline secure.
Benin’s upcoming fixtures will play a decisive role in shaping Group C. With South Africa currently sitting top with 13 points, Rohr’s men must secure positive results to remain in contention. Zimbabwe and Lesotho, though ranked lower, are seen as dangerous opponents capable of derailing Benin’s qualification hopes.
Speaking at the unveiling, Rohr emphasised the magnitude of the challenge ahead, stating that every match from this point forward would be a “final” for the team. With morale high and preparations underway, Benin’s Cheetahs will travel to Ivory Coast determined to deliver performances worthy of their growing ambition on the continental stage.
