Benin claim first AFCON 2027 qualifying win as Rodolfo Aloko sinks Mauritania

Benin secured their first victory of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign by beating Mauritania 2-1 on Tuesday, 29 September 2026.

The Guepards produced an assertive display at the neutral Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara d’Ebimpe, recovering from the doubts created by their previous match.

Rodolfo Aloko proved decisive for Benin, scoring both goals to give Gernot Rohr’s side control of the second-round Group F fixture.

Mauritania, known as the Mourabitounes, reduced the deficit in the second half and threatened to earn a result. However, Benin’s defence held firm, with captain Sessi D’Almeida helping to organise a resilient rear guard until the final whistle.

The result gives Benin their first three points of the qualifying campaign and moves them temporarily into second place in Group F, directly behind the leaders.

Mauritania drop to third on goal difference after their positive start to the qualifiers. They will need to respond at the next international gathering as the group remains tightly contested.

For Benin, the win puts Rohr’s team firmly into the race for qualification for the pan-African tournament.