BENIN has officially announced their final squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a short delay. The team's coach, Gernot Rohr, released the list on Friday, and the Cheetahs are heading to Morocco with a strong group of experienced defenders. The central defense includes Mohamed Tijani and Olivier Verdon, and veterans David Kiki and Yohan Roche add stability to the back line. Marcel Dandjinou, who plays for a South African club, is expected to start in goal, with Saturnin Allagbe as his backup.
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However, injuries have made things a bit tricky for Rohr.
Forward Andreas Hountondji is unable to take part in the tournament, and Felipe Santos, a Brazilian-born player who recently switched nationality, didn't make the final squad due to injury. Star striker Steve Mounié has been included despite ongoing fitness issues, which could be a big plus if he can recover in time to lead the attack.
In the midfield, Benin has a mix of seasoned players and up-and-coming talents.
Dodo Dokou, based in Portugal, is a key player, supported by Sessi D'Almeida and Jodel Dossou. Dossou is known for his ability in set pieces, even though he now plays in France's fifth division. Young stars like Hassane Imourane from Grasshoppers and Dokou are expected to bring energy and creativity in the middle of the park. Junior Olaitan, who plays in Turkey, contributes attacking flair from midfield and the wings.
Up front, Mounié will be joined by Tosin Aiyegun from FC Lorient and Adam Akimey, a Sweden-born player who is still waiting for his first national team appearance.
Benin have been placed in Group D, which includes Botswana, DR Congo, and the tournament favorites Senegal. Their opening match of AFCON 2025 is set for December 23 in Rabat against DR Congo.