AFCON 2025Q: Benin Republic Star, Ahlinvi, Doubtful For Nigeria Match

Benin Republic star Matteo Ahlinvi is a big doubt for the country’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Nigeria and Libya.

The midfielder sustained an injury in Vasteras’ 1-0 win over Hammarby in their Swedish League clash last weekend.

Ahlinvi was replaced in the 34th minute of the encounter.

The 25-year-old has scored three goals and registered two assists in 26 league appearances for Vasteras this season.

He has made 22 appearances for his country without a goal to his name.

Meanwhile, Benin appeared to be more prepared for Thursday’s 2025 AFCON qualifier against the Super Eagles as 18 players trained are due in Abidjan yesterday.

Ten players hit the camp Sunday, while another eight players led by captain Steve Mounie, Jodel Dossou and David Kiki arrived camp on Monday.

Coach Gernot Rohr has invited 25 players for this make-or-break clash.

Benin are second in Group D with six points, but they cannot afford to slip because they are being chased by third-placed Rwanda, who have five points and welcome already eliminated Libya Thursday.

In June, the Cheetahs recorded a famous 2-1 win in Abidjan against the star-studded Super Eagles in a 2026 World Cup qualifying match.

They have won their two home games in the AFCON qualifiers against Libya and Rwanda in Abidjan.