Benin vs Lesotho Prediction & Betting Tips (9 September)

As the 2026 World Championship qualifiers heat up, Benin and Lesotho prepare to clash in a pivotal Group C encounter. Benin, under the guidance of German tactician Gernot Rohr, are seeking redemption after a string of underwhelming results. Despite a 2-1 defeat to South Africa in their opening qualifier, the Cheetahs showed flashes of promise, particularly through striker Steve Mounié, who netted their lone goal. With a squad featuring emerging talents like Junior Olaitan and Hassane Imourane, Benin will look to capitalize on home advantage and break their 13-match winless streak across all competitions.

Lesotho, meanwhile, arrive with quiet confidence after holding Nigeria to a surprising 1-1 draw in their curtain-raiser. Coach Leslie Notsi has instilled a gritty resilience in his side, which has been forced to play home matches away due to stadium compliance issues. Despite the logistical challenges, the Crocodiles have shown they can punch above their weight. Motlomelo Mkwanazi’s goal against Nigeria highlighted their ability to strike against the run of play, and goalkeeper Sekhoane Moerane continues to impress with his composure under pressure, especially following his promotion-winning campaign in South Africa.

Both teams have struggled in recent continental competitions, with Benin finishing third in their AFCON qualifying group and Lesotho bottoming theirs. However, this match offers a fresh canvas. Benin’s midfield, anchored by Sessi d'Almeida and Dodo Dokou, will aim to control tempo and feed Mounié, while Lesotho’s counter-attacking style could exploit defensive lapses. The tactical battle between Rohr’s structured approach and Notsi’s reactive setup promises a compelling narrative, especially with both sides desperate to climb the group standings.

Expect a tightly contested affair, but Benin’s superior attacking depth and home support should tilt the balance. A 2-1 scoreline in favor of the Cheetahs feels plausible, with Mounié likely to be decisive. Lesotho may find the net through a set-piece or a moment of individual brilliance, but Benin’s hunger to end their winless run and their marginal edge in squad quality should see them through. This fixture may not dominate headlines, but it could prove crucial in shaping the trajectory of both nations’ World Cup dreams.

• Summary: Benin is going head to head with Lesotho starting on 9 Sept 2025 at 19:00 UTC at Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny stadium, Abidjan city, Côte d'Ivoire. The match is a part of the FIFA World Cup, Qualification CAF, Group C .