Historic Roche strike hands Benin first-ever AFCON victory

Benin etched their name into the history books after securing a narrow 1–0 victory over Botswana to claim their first three points at the Africa Cup of Nations finals — and their first-ever win at this stage of the competition.

The landmark moment arrived in the 28th minute when Yohan Roche found the back of the net following a well-worked move involving Mounié. Mounié’s clever assist set up Roche, who made no mistake from close range to send the Beninese bench into celebration.

That solitary strike proved decisive in a tightly contested encounter, with Benin showing discipline and composure to protect their advantage until the final whistle. Botswana pushed for an equaliser but were kept at bay by a resolute Cheetahs defence.

The final whistle confirmed a historic milestone for Benin, as the Cheetahs celebrated a breakthrough victory on the continental stage — a result that will be remembered as a defining moment in their AFCON journey.