The upcoming World Cup 2026 qualifying matches for Benin will be held at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan, due to the unavailability of the General Mathieu Kérékou Stadium in Cotonou.
Consequently, the Squirrels will play against Rwanda and Nigeria at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan for the 3rd and 4th qualifying days this coming June.
Prior to the 2023 African Cup of Nations, which took place from January 13 to February 11 in Côte d’Ivoire, the Ivorian Elephants also played matches in Benin. Likewise, the Ivorian club ASEC Mimosas had participated in African competitions in Benin.
As a reminder, on March 23, 2024, in Amiens, Côte d’Ivoire played its first match since its victory at the African Cup of Nations (CAN) in February and failed to clinch a win against Benin, settling for a 2-2 draw in the friendly. Junior Olaitan emerged as a hero for Benin by scoring twice, allowing the Squirrels to lead on two occasions, but the team was eventually caught up each time.
