AFCON 2025Q: Benin Republic star may miss Super Eagles clash with injury

Benin Republic’s midfielder, Matteo Ahlinvi, is uncertain to play in the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Nigeria and Libya due to an injury sustained during Vasteras’ league match against Hammarby ¹. The 25-year-old player, who has appeared 22 times for the Cheetahs, left the pitch in the 34th minute, but the extent of the injury is still unknown.

Meanwhile, Benin Republic is gearing up to host the Super Eagles at the Felix Houphet Boigny Stadium in Abidjan on Thursday. Coach Gernot Rohr’s team will then face the Mediterranean Knights of Libya next week Monday ¹.

In preparation for the matches, 10 players from Benin Republic have already arrived at the camp, according to Joueurs Beninois ². The team is looking to replicate their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying feat against the three-time AFCON champions, Nigeria.

Here’s a brief overview of the upcoming matches:

• AFCON 2025 Qualifiers: Benin Republic vs. Nigeria (Thursday) and Libya (next week Monday)
• Venue: Felix Houphet Boigny Stadium, Abidjan
• Current Standings: Benin Republic is second with six points, four points behind Nigeria ²