Benin Defeats Rwanda 1-0 in Thrilling 2026 World Cup Qualifier

Benin edged Rwanda 1-0 in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan on Thursday night. Dodo Dokou's 37th-minute goal, from a Rachid Moumini corner, secured the win, keeping Benin's World Cup hopes alive by drawing level on points with Rwanda.

The match was marked by Rwanda's strong second-half performance, despite missing several key opportunities. Coach Torsten Spittler made a notable change by starting Saudi Arabia-based Steve Rubanguka in defensive midfield, while Benin introduced Marcel Danjinou, David Kiki, and Rachid Moumini into their lineup.

Rwanda adopted a counter-attacking strategy, with defenders Emmanuel Imanishimwe and Fitina Omborenga making overlapping runs, but the midfield struggled, limiting number 10 Hakim Sahabo's influence. Benin capitalized on their series of corners, with Dokou scoring from Moumini's delivery.

Spittler's second-half substitutions brought more urgency, with Samuel Gueulette and Kevin Muhire adding dynamism to the attack. Despite dominating the final 20 minutes, Rwanda couldn't convert their chances. Benin's defense and goalkeeper Dandjunou held firm, denying several attempts, including a close header from Thierry Manzi and a shot from Gueulette.

Jojea Kwizera made his debut for Rwanda, causing problems for Benin's defense, but the Amavubi couldn't find an equalizer. Rwanda will next face Lesotho at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa, on June 11, while Benin will host Nigeria at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium.