Benin Republic’s AFCON 2025 qualification hopes face a significant challenge as key midfielder Matteo Ahlinvi could miss the crucial clash against the Super Eagles due to injury. The Vasteras star sustained a setback in the 34th minute during his Swedish league match against Hammarby last weekend, leaving his status uncertain for the upcoming qualifiers.
The extent of Ahlinvi’s injury is still being evaluated, with fans and the Benin national team eagerly awaiting an update. At 25, Ahlinvi has become a reliable presence in Benin’s midfield, making 22 appearances for the national side, the Cheetahs. His absence would be a considerable blow to coach Gernot Rohr’s strategy, as the team looks to secure an edge in the match scheduled at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan on Thursday.
Benin’s campaign in Group D has been tightly contested, with every match crucial to maintaining their chances of advancing to the tournament. With Ahlinvi’s injury adding uncertainty, the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Mediterranean Knights of Libya may find new opportunities in the competitive group stage.
