Rwanda clash is important to Benin’s World Cup dream - Hountondji

Benin Republic forward Andreas Hountondji believes their clash against Rwanda will play a decisive role in determining the team’s qualification hopes for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

With only two rounds of qualifiers remaining, Benin currently tops the group with 14 points, narrowly ahead of South Africa on goal difference, while Nigeria and Rwanda trail closely on 11 points each.

Speaking to FIFA.com, Hountondji described the magnitude of the fixture, stressing the need for total focus and determination from his teammates.

“I honestly can’t wait. To be honest, I don’t know if it’s fully dawned on me yet how close we are to actually qualifying,” said the forward.

He added, “Playing for the national team is a really special adventure and one that’s so rewarding on a human level. This is our country, so it means so much to us.”

The 24-year-old emphasised that victory against Rwanda would put the Cheetahs in a commanding position ahead of their final group game against Nigeria.

“Our next match, against Rwanda, is going to be pivotal. If we manage to pick up the three points, we’ll be very handily placed ahead of our final game, against Nigeria,” he added.

He continued, “Honestly, I have so much love for this group of boys that just finding ourselves in this position now, as the qualifiers are coming to an end, is amazing.”

Hountondji, who previously played for Standard Liège, expressed optimism about Benin’s chances, highlighting the team’s spirit and belief.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing just how pumped and hungry we’ll be. We’ve got the chance to create great excitement and some incredible memories. I think we’re capable of getting the job done – anything is possible,” he concluded.

Benin will host Rwanda in what promises to be a defining encounter as the West Africans chase a historic first-ever World Cup appearance.