2026 World Cup Qualifier: Benin Hit By Injury Setback Ahead Of Nigeria Clash

2026 World Cup Qualifier: Benin Hit By Injury Setback Ahead Of Nigeria Clash

Sampson Adedeji

The Cheetahs of Benin Republic have been dealt a major blow ahead of next month’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Nigeria, as promising forward Rodolfo Aloko is set to miss out due to injury, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Aloko sustained a knee injury during Benin’s Matchday 8 encounter with Lesotho.

The 18-year-old Charlotte FC striker, who has been in fine form for the national team, is scheduled to undergo surgery and will be sidelined for several weeks.

Making his second consecutive start for the Cheetahs, Aloko impressed by registering his first assist for Benin before collapsing with a knee problem in the 50th minute and being stretchered off.

Speaking on Canal Sport on Canal 3 Benin, head coach Gernot Rohr confirmed the severity of the setback.

“Unfortunately, Rodolfo has a more serious injury a meniscus problem that requires surgery".

 "He will likely miss the October fixtures. It’s sad because he was improving, with two very convincing performances.”

Benin currently sit second in Group C of the African qualifiers with 14 points, three behind leaders South Africa’s Bafana Bafana.