Benin star midfielder Junior Olaitan has said the country’s 2025 AFCON qualifying campaign is now back on course after they put behind the loss to the Super Eagles to beat Libya.
Benin fell 3-0 to Nigeria in Uyo, before they came from behind to beat Libya 2-1 in their adopted home in Abidjan to now move into second place in Group D.
“After we lost to Nigeria, we spoke to ourselves, ‘if we are to qualify for the AFCON, it has to start with a win over Libya,” the 22-year-old midfielder revealed.
“At half time with us trailing 1-0, we again told ourselves we have to win on this pitch and we gave everything.”
Captain Steve Mounie then drew the Cheetahs level, before Man of the Match Olaitan tucked away a penalty to win the match.
“In three weeks against Rwanda, we will again do what is necessary,” the Grenoble of France star vowed.
Next month, Benin and Rwanda will engage in a double header in continuation of the AFCON qualifiers.
The Cheetahs, led by coach Gernot Rohr, have already beaten Rwanda in Abidjan in a 2026 World Cup qualifier in June.
