By Angu Lesley
Football Writer,kick442.com-Cameroon
Benin’s Cheetahs spoiled Abdelaziz Kerkache’s first match in charge of the Central African Republic with an emphatic 4-1 victory in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying encounter at the Stade Félix-Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan on Thursday, November 12, 2026.
The Moroccan tactician, appointed on November 6 to replace Éloge Enza Yamissi, had little time to prepare the Fauves for their crucial double confrontation against Benin. His first assignment ended in disappointment as the Central African Republic suffered a third consecutive defeat in Group F, leaving their qualification campaign in serious difficulty.
Benin, coached by experienced German-born tactician Gernot Rohr, made a flying start and took the lead in the seventh minute through Hassane Imourane. However, the Central African Republic responded in the 19th minute when their all-time leading goalscorer, Louis Mafouta, restored parity to give the visitors renewed hope.
The Cheetahs quickly regained control of the encounter. Rodolfo Aloko restored Benin’s advantage in the 31st minute before Lorient forward Tosin Aiyegun extended the lead five minutes later, finishing after being set up by Yamirou Ouorou. Benin went into the interval with a commanding 3-1 advantage.
Aiyegun completed his brace in the 56th minute, converting Junior Olaïtan’s pass to put the result beyond doubt. His double took centre stage in an impressive collective performance from the Cheetahs, who demonstrated greater attacking efficiency and punished the defensive weaknesses of their opponents.
For Kerkache, the defeat represents a difficult introduction to international football in his new role. Despite having experienced internationals such as Geoffrey Kondogbia and Mafouta available, the Moroccan coach was unable to prevent another disappointing result for a side that had already lost their opening two qualifying matches against Mauritania and Burkina Faso.
The victory takes Benin to seven points from three matches, following their opening 1-1 draw against Burkina Faso and 2-1 victory over Mauritania. The Cheetahs now occupy first position in Group F, while the Central African Republic remain bottom without a point after three defeats.
Both nations will meet again on Monday, November 16, at the Japoma Stadium in Douala, Cameroon. Kerkache will have an immediate opportunity to seek a response from his players, while Rohr’s Benin will be targeting another victory to strengthen their position in the race for qualification for the 2027 AFCON in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
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