Phoko disappointed by Benin defeat

The Zebras attempt of finding a win or a draw at the competition continued to hit a blank, while on the other side, Benin picked their first AFCON win. The Zebras have become the first side to be eliminated out of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations following a 1-0 defeat by Benin in the Group D match played yesterday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. The Zebras will play their final match on Tuesday against DR Congo. Speaking after the match, Phoko said there nothing he can do, but rather move forward and hope that God will assist them to win the next match against DR Congo.

“The mood was high before the game but after losing, they just have to go back to the drawing board,” he said. Phoko continued where he left off against Senegal, stopping all the threats piled against him by Les Guepards (Benin). Losika Tshukudu was the only change in The Zebras following their opening loss to Senegal. The side started on the back foot, and trailed through a finish by Aiyegun Tosun, in the third minute, but fortunately it was disallowed. Benin made a comeback, 28 minutes later through a well taken strike by Yohan Roche to give his side the lead. The Zebras looked to level matters, but were denied when a free-kick by Mothusi Johnson hit the woodwork.