Benin Republic captain Steve Mounie has expressed disappointment after the Cheetahs failed to hold on for victory in Thursday’s 1-1 draw against Nigeria in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, softfootball reported.
Benin looked on course for a famous win after Mohammed Tijani headed them in front in the 16th minute. However, the Super Eagles rescued a point late in the game when Victor Osimhen rose highest to nod home the equaliser with eight minutes remaining.
The result leaves Benin with work still to do in their quest to qualify for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.
Reflecting on the outcome, Mounie admitted his side let a golden opportunity slip away after failing to capitalize on several clear chances.
The striker noted that while a draw is not the worst possible result, Benin would have preferred to secure all three points after taking the lead. He also acknowledged Nigeria’s quality, insisting that teams must make the most of their chances against the Super Eagles because missed opportunities are often punished.
Attention now shifts to Benin’s decisive final group match away to Libya, where victory would guarantee qualification for the continental tournament.
Despite the challenge that awaits, Mounie remains optimistic that the Cheetahs can get the job done.
He admitted the encounter in Tripoli will be difficult, stressing that Libya will also be desperate to keep their own qualification hopes alive. However, he believes Benin have what it takes to secure a positive result if they remain mentally strong and handle the pressure of the occasion.
With qualification still in their own hands, the Cheetahs will head to Libya knowing that one final push could seal their place at AFCON 2025.
