Benin vs Botswana live score, H2H and lineups

[(Benin) Strength]:
1. Benin's motivation largely stems from a recent major setback. They narrowly missed out on qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in the final moments of the qualifiers, and the whole team are eager to channel this disappointment into motivation for the Africa Cup of Nations. Their determination is high.
2. Benin captain Steve Mounie's experience will be a key weapon for the team in attack. He needs to take on the responsibility of breaking the deadlock for the team.
3. AH market provided a -0.5/1 line to back Benin in this match.
4. Benin are expected to focus on defensive counter-attacks, utilizing team coordination and speed to seek opportunities.

[(Benin) Neutral]:
1. The two teams have never faced each other before, so there is no historical data available for reference.

[(Benin) Weakness]:
1. Benin have lost 3 of their last 4 matches, indicating their recent form has been average. In their last Africa Cup of Nations match, they lost 0-1 to Democratic Rep Congo, missing out on three points.
2. Benin have scored only 2 goals and conceded 8 in their last 5 matches, showing an imbalance in their recent offensive and defensive performances.

[(Botswana) Strength]:
1. For Botswana, this is only their second appearance in the Africa Cup of Nations main tournament, which in itself is a significant achievement. After a heavy defeat to the strong opponent Senegal in their opening match, their realistic goal for this match is clear: avoid consecutive losses and strive to leave a positive mark in Africa Cup of Nations history, such as earning their first point or even scoring their first goal. Their determination is unquestionable.
2. Despite Botswana's heavy defeat in their opening match, goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko made several impressive saves and performed exceptionally well. He is the anchor of the team's defense.
3. Botswana will continue to stick to their familiar 5-4-1 or 4-5-1 deep defensive formations, aiming to stabilize their defense and avoid conceding goals first.

[(Botswana) Weakness]:
1. Botswana have recorded 3 draws and 5 losses in their last 8 matches across all competitions, with no wins, indicating poor form. In their last Africa Cup of Nations match, they lost 0-3 to Senegal.
2. Botswana have scored only 3 goals and conceded 10 in their last 5 matches, reflecting poor recent performances in both attack and defense.
3. Botswana have lost 4 of their last 5 matches in AH, indicating their recent ability to beat the odds is insufficient.

[Tips]:
Benin faced Democratic Rep Congo in their opening match, losing 0-1 in a narrow defeat.

However, they were not completely passive on the field, even holding a slight advantage in possession and shots on goal.

The main issue was their finishing, as they failed to convert their advantages into goals.

Botswana, in their opening match against the strong defending champions Senegal, lost 0-3, reflecting a significant gap in strength.

The team's overall ability is limited, particularly in creativity and forward momentum when transitioning from defense to attack.

AH market provided a -0.5/1 line to back Benin in this match.

Benin also hold a more significant psychological advantage.

In conclusion, Benin are likely to defeat Botswana this time.

[Recommended]:
Benin (-0.5/1)