Benin Lose Aloko To Injury Ahead Of Nigeria Qualifier

By FRED LONGJOHN OBEH

BENIN Republic have suffered a major setback ahead of next month’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Nigeria, with teenage striker Rodolfo Aloko ruled out through injury.

The 18-year-old Charlotte FC forward sustained a knee problem in the Cheetahs’ 2-1 win over Lesotho and is set to undergo surgery, ruling him out for several weeks.

Head coach Gernot Rohr confirmed the injury blow, describing it as “sad” given Aloko’s recent form, including his first international assist.

Benin are second in Group C with 14 points, three behind leaders South Africa.