Benin AFCON 2025

Belief, unity, and determination are fueling Benin’s remarkable journey at the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025. As the Cheetahs prepare to face African giants Egypt in the Round of 16, striker Steve Mounié insists the team is mentally stronger and more ambitious than ever before.

Already, Benin have rewritten their own history. They claimed their first-ever AFCON victory, marking a major milestone for the West African nation. However, according to Mounié, the players are far from satisfied. Their next objective is clear: reach the quarter-finals and equal their best-ever AFCON performance, the

Confidence Growing Ahead of Egypt Clash

Benin will meet Egypt in Agadir on Monday, knowing the challenge ahead is immense. Nevertheless, Mounié believes confidence within the squad has never been higher.

“We will approach this match with determination and the belief that we can qualify,” Mounié told CAFOnline. “We are fully confident in our strengths.”

That belief, he explains, is rooted in the team’s collective spirit. Throughout AFCON 2025, Benin’s unity has stood out as one of their strongest assets.

Team Spirit Driving Benin Forward

Beyond tactics and physical preparation, the Cheetahs have focused on building harmony within the squad. According to Mounié, this togetherness has helped players cope with the pressure of a major tournament.

“The group is doing really well. We share moments of joy together,” he said. “At every meal, players taking part in their first AFCON go through a small initiation. It creates a great atmosphere and helps us release mental pressure.”

As a result, Benin have played with freedom and confidence, qualities that were sometimes missing in past tournaments. This relaxed but focused mindset could prove crucial against Egypt’s experienced Pharaohs.

Learning From 2019 to Aim Higher in 2025

Benin’s qualification from Group F was historic. Not only did they secure their first AFCON group-stage win, but it was also their first victory from open play in the competition’s history. Still, Mounié believes this is only the beginning.

“We have already made history, but now we are thinking about what comes next,” he explained. “Continuing to write the history of Beninese football is very important to us.”

Mounié was part of the Benin squad in AFCON 2019, when the team—then known as the Squirrels—reached the quarter-finals for the first time. However, he admits that success came at a cost.

“In 2019, we were mentally exhausted. We weren’t prepared to go that far,” he recalled. “This time, our preparation has been longer and more structured. I hope we will be mentally and physically fresher.”

That experience, therefore, has become a valuable lesson rather than a burden.

Injury Concerns but Unwavering Determination

Despite his leadership, Mounié remains a doubt for the clash against Egypt due to injury. Even so, his absence would not weaken Benin’s resolve.

“One thing is certain,” he stressed. “Whether I play or not, the team will give everything.”

This attitude reflects the collective mentality instilled within the squad—one that prioritizes the team over individual contributions.

Gernot Rohr’s Influence on Benin’s Rise

Head coach Gernot Rohr has played a central role in Benin’s resurgence. Under his guidance, the team has embraced responsibility and tactical awareness.

“The coach gives a lot of responsibility to his players,” said Mounié. “That’s important because we are the ones on the pitch. With experience, we must manage tactical and technical situations ourselves.”

Although Benin have faced criticism from some quarters, Mounié believes the results speak for themselves.

“Some of the criticism has been harsh,” he admitted. “But what matters is that we achieved the objectives we set before the competition.”

A Historic Opportunity Awaits

As Benin prepare to face Egypt, they carry more than just tactical plans—they carry belief, unity, and the weight of a nation dreaming of history. Qualification for the quarter-finals would not only equal their best AFCON performance but also confirm Benin’s growing status on the African football stage.

For Steve Mounié and the Cheetahs, AFCON 2025 is no longer just about participation. Instead, it is about proving that Benin belongs among Africa’s elite.