Benin – Senegal: one last push to clinch qualification 
Group D of the Africa Cup of Nations wraps up Tuesday night in Tangier with a clash that looks lop-sided on paper between Senegal and Benin. The Teranga Lions already have one foot in the knockout phase, while the Cheetahs, boosted by their historic win over Botswana, still have their tournament fate to play for.
Benin: an AFCON already written into the history books 
Before this 2025 edition, Benin had never won a match at the AFCON finals. That oddity was finally wiped out on December 27 with a narrow but priceless 1-0 victory over Botswana, sealed by Yohan Roche.
That result changed the momentum for Gernot Rohr’s side. Narrowly beaten by DR Congo in the opener, the Cheetahs bounced back with a rockier, more disciplined look, especially at the back. Team organisation and commitment kept them alive heading into the final showdown.
It’s far from perfect. Benin remain inconsistent, capable of the brilliant and the limited, and recent form reflects that wobble. But with up to four points still on offer, qualification is on the table — especially as one of the best third-placed teams.
Against Senegal, the approach should be cautious. The Beninese staff will likely stick with a XI close to the one that beat Botswana, favouring continuity and discipline over reckless risks.
Senegal: keep control and don’t lose their way 
Senegal move forward with the calm of a favourite who knows their job. Commanding 3-0 winners over Botswana on matchday one, the Teranga Lions then showed another side against DR Congo, clawing back to grab a precious 1-1 draw.
That game proved that even when they’re rattled, the 2021 African champions can ride out the rough patches. The experience of players like Mané, Koulibaly, Mendy and Idrissa Gueye still matters in the key moments.
Going forward, Senegal remain one of the tournament’s most complete sides. Nicolas Jackson adds depth, Mané stays unpredictable, and the midfield strikes a solid balance between winning the ball and pushing forward.
Tuesday’s goal is simple: avoid shocks, lock down top spot if possible, and hit the knockouts with belief and clarity. They might manage minutes smartly, but Senegal aren’t here to make up the numbers.
Likely lineups
Benin: Dandjinou, Ouorou, Verdon, Tidjani, Roche, D’Almeida, Dodo, Imourane, Tosin, Olaitan, Mounie
Senegal: Mendy, Diatta, Koulibaly, Niakhaté, Jakobs, I. Gueye, P. Gueye, Ndiaye, Sarr, Mané, Jackson
Key takeaways
- Benin just notched the first win in their AFCON history.
- Senegal have lost only one of their last eight matches.
- A draw could be enough for either side depending on other results.
- Senegal’s experience remains a decisive factor.
Football Prediction Benin vs Senegal
Senegal to win
Benin have already turned heads in this tournament, but the task ramps up massively against a Senegal side schooled in these occasions. Not always flashy, the Teranga Lions have the tools to control the match and make the decisive play when it matters.
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