The 2026 World Cup Qualifiers are heating up as Benin hosts Rwanda at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny on Thursday.
This match is pivotal for both teams, with Benin aiming to break their winless streak and Rwanda looking to maintain their top position in Group C.
Current Form
Benin
Benin's journey in the World Cup qualifiers has been challenging. They started with a 2-1 defeat to South Africa followed by a goalless draw against Lesotho.
The Cheetahs then engaged in international friendlies, drawing with Ivory Coast and losing to Senegal.
Unfortunately, Benin is on a 16-match winless run across all competitions, losing nine and drawing seven since their last victory against Liberia in March 2023.
Their form in the qualifiers is concerning, and they desperately need a win to regain confidence.
Benin's World Cup Qualifying Form: L-D
Benin's Recent Form (All Competitions): D-L-D-D-L
Rwanda
In contrast, Rwanda has had a promising start to their qualifiers. They began with a goalless draw against Zimbabwe and then secured a 2-0 victory over South Africa, a favoured team in the group.
This victory marked a turning point for the Wasps, who are now unbeaten in their last five matches.
Despite their historically poor record against Benin, Rwanda's recent form makes them a formidable opponent.
Rwanda's World Cup Qualifying Form: D-W
Rwanda's Recent Form (All Competitions): D-D-W-D-W
Team News
Benin
Benin's squad will rely heavily on the experience of Steve Mounie, who has scored 16 goals in 51 caps.
The defence will be anchored by Cedric Hountondji and Mohamed Tijani, with Junior Olaitan expected to control the midfield.
Probable Lineup: Allagbe; Kiki, Hountondji, Tirana, Assogba; Imourane, Dodo, D'Almeida, Olaitan; Mounie, Hountondji
Rwanda
For Rwanda, Innocent Nshuti, who found the net against South Africa, will be leading the attack.
Gilbert Mugisha, who also scored in that match, will play a crucial role in the midfield.
Probable Lineup: Ntwali; Omborenga, Manzi, Mutsinzi, Imanishimwe; Sahabo, Mugisha, Bizimana, Byiringiro, Niyonzima; Nshuti
Key Players to Watch
Steve Mounie (Benin)
Innocent Nshuti (Rwanda)
Prediction
While Benin is struggling to find their form, Rwanda is on an upward trajectory.
However, Benin's historical dominance over Rwanda and the home advantage could play a significant role.
We predict a closely contested match ending in a 1-1 draw, with both teams sharing the spoils.
Rwanda 
Benin 
