Preview: Benin vs Senegal - prediction, team news, lineups

[(Benin) Strength]:
1. In their opening match in Group D, Benin lost 0–1 to Congo, but a subsequent victory over Botswana has kept their hopes of advancing to the knockout stage alive.
2. In the match against Botswana, several previously suspended players, including goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou, Junior Olaitan, Mohamed Tijani, and Steve Mounie, were eligible to return. They are expected to retain their starting positions for the upcoming fixture against Senegal.

[(Benin) Neutral]:
1. Benin's head coach Gernot Rohr emphasizes the team's resilience and organization. Maintaining tactical and lineup consistency will be crucial in their upcoming match against Senegal.

[(Benin) Weakness]:
1. Benin's squad has remained relatively stable, although they will be without Andreas Hountondji, who declined the national team call-up due to an ongoing leg injury.
2. Benin have had alternating wins and losses in their last four matches across all competitions, and the team's recent form has been unstable.
3. Benin have scored only two goals in their last five matches, averaging less than one goal per game, indicating a lack of offensive firepower.
4. Benin have conceded 8 goals in their last 5 matches, averaging nearly 2 goals per game, indicating a poor defensive performance.
5. The two sides have met a total of 10 times, with Benin achieving a record of 3 draws and 7 losses, being at a disadvantage.

[(Senegal) Strength]:
1. Senegal have secured 4 points from their first two matches in Group D, following a 3-0 victory over Botswana and a subsequent 1-1 draw with Congo. They currently lead the group standings and are in a strong position to advance to the knockout stage.
2. In their match against Botswana, Senegal demonstrated formidable offensive power and defensive solidity, with Nicolas Jackson scoring two goals. Playing against Congo, the team further showcased their resilience and game control by coming from behind to secure a draw, with the equalizer scored by Sadio Mane.
3. Senegal, boasting a wealth of experience with players like Sadio Mane, Edouard Mendy, Kalidou Koulibaly and Idrissa Gueye, remain among the top contenders for the championship.
4. Senegal have remained unbeaten in the last three matches, and the team's recent form has been stable.
5. Senegal have scored a total of 16 goals in their last five matches, averaging more than three goals per game, and their offensive power is on full display.
6. Senegal have conceded only three goals in their last five matches, averaging less than one goal per game, demonstrating an outstanding defensive performance.
7. In the last 8 encounters between the two sides, Senegal have scored 11 goals and conceded 2, holding an advantage in both offensive and defensive statistics.

[(Senegal) Neutral]:
1. Most of Senegal's players are available, but Ismaila Sarr, who was substituted early in the match against Congo due to an ankle ligament injury, is still recovering.

[Tips]:
Senegal are currently leading Benin in the league table and naturally hope to defeat their opponents in this match.

Benin's last four matches across all competitions have seen alternating wins and losses. On the other hand, Senegal have remained unbeaten in their last three matches. Judging from the head-to-head record between the two sides, Senegal have the upper hand.

The AH line is -1.5 for the away side.

Considering that Senegal's overall strength is still stronger, they are favored to win in this match.

[Recommended]:
Senegal (-1.5)