Marc Mensah

Benin Names 21-Player Squad for Historic U-20 Women’s World Cup Debut

By Marc MensahAugust 29, 2026

Benin has announced its 21-player squad for its historic debut at the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup in Poland, featuring a balanced roster of three goalkeepers, seven defenders, eight midfielders, and three forwards. Drawn into a challenging but open Group A alongside hosts Poland, Mexico, and Argentina, the Amazones will open their campaign against Mexico on September 5, 2026, before facing Argentina and Poland. This marks a landmark achievement for Beninese women's football, as the team enters the global stage for the first time in the tournament's 12th edition. The squad's composition suggests a strategic emphasis on midfield depth, which will be crucial for competing against more experienced nations in the group stage.

Benin

General News

Bridge Collapse in Central Benin: Two Rescued After Nighttime Plunge

By Marc MensahAugust 29, 2026

On August 28, 2026, the Lifo bridge on the Aklampa-Glazoué axis collapsed, nearly drowning two road users who were rescued by firefighters and police. This incident exposes critical infrastructure failures in Benin's Collines department, where a lack of maintenance and monitoring led to a life-threatening structural failure at night. The successful rescue operation highlights the vital role of emergency services, but the unrecovered motorcycle and reliance on social media for alerts reveal gaps in official reporting and response coordination. The key takeaway is an urgent need for proactive bridge inspections and robust emergency protocols to prevent future tragedies and ensure public safety.

Benin