Benin Republic boosted their hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup with an emphatic 4-0 victory over Lesotho at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan.
The Cheetahs, managed by Gernot Rohr, dominated throughout and climbed into second place in Group C, leapfrogging Nigeria after the Super Eagles’ 1-1 draw with South Africa.
Captain Steve Mounié set the tone after just six minutes, converting from close range to hand the hosts an early advantage.
The striker’s influence continued as he turned provider for Andreas Hountondji, who doubled the lead midway through the first half.
Hassane Imourane added a third in the 33rd minute following a neat assist from Junior Olaitan, ensuring the Cheetahs went into the break with a commanding cushion.
Olaitan capped off his own impressive performance with Benin’s fourth in the 67th minute, leaving Lesotho chasing shadows in Abidjan.
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The victory underlines Benin’s resurgence under Rohr, who guided them to a vital win over Zimbabwe in the previous round. Against Lesotho, his team produced a collective performance marked by pressing, quick passing, and ruthless finishing.
Lesotho, by contrast, struggled to impose themselves and offered little threat going forward, with the Beninese defence rarely tested.
The win moves Benin onto 14 points from eight matches, two ahead of Nigeria (11), while leaders South Africa remain on 17 points following their draw with the Super Eagles in Bloemfontein.
Lesotho stay rooted to the bottom of the group, all but out of contention for qualification.
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Only the winners of each group are guaranteed a place at the finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Four best runners-up will progress to the play-offs.
What next?
Benin continue their campaign in October when they face Rwanda in Kigali, while Nigeria meet Lesotho in Bloemfontein. South Africa, meanwhile, will aim to maintain their lead when the face Zimbabwe in South Africa.
