The Cheetahs of Benin have issued a strong warning to Libya ahead of their decisive 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier on Monday, with captain Steve Mounié making it clear they won’t tolerate any off-pitch antics, Soccernet.ng reports.
Benin and Libya will clash in Tripoli for Group D’s second qualification ticket, with both teams relying on Nigeria to defeat Rwanda in Uyo on the same day.
The Super Eagles have already secured their place in the tournament, leaving the final spot in the group up for grabs.
Libya need to win by at least two goals, while a draw would be enough to send Benin to the AFCON for the first time since their impressive quarterfinal run in 2019.
However, concerns have been raised about potential off-field disruptions, a tactic Libya has used in the past.
Last month, Libya detained the Nigerian team at an abandoned airport for over 15 hours before their scheduled match.
The move backfired spectacularly, as Nigeria refused to play, prompting CAF to award the Super Eagles a 3-0 victory and fine Libya.
Captain Steve Mounié addressed these concerns, recalling past incidents where Benin fell victim to similar strategies.
“We quickly forget Sierra Leone where we were fooled,” Mounié told Afrik-Foot.
“We lost an AFCON in this episode… At least, the Libyans will not be able to do the same thing again.
“Otherwise, we will leave like the Nigerians and we will have won the match.”
Benin’s coach, Gernot Rohr, also highlighted Libya’s attempts to change the venue to synthetic pitches in Benghazi, which the Cheetahs successfully resisted.
“Already, Libya tried to move the match to Benghazi on synthetic pitches,” Rohr revealed.
“Obviously, we refused this maneuver. And, on the field, we will also know how to respond. I have confidence in this team with an impeccable state of mind.”
While Benin are eager to end their AFCON drought, Libya, 1982 runners-up, aim to make their first tournament appearance since 2012.