Benin's U15 national team, known as the Young Guépards, made a remarkable impact at the FIFA World Cup and Festival U15 on Wednesday, October 28, 2026. They secured two convincing victories, first defeating Cuba 4-0 and then triumphing over Nigeria 6-3 in a thrilling West African derby. Under the guidance of coach Ghislain Agoli-Agbo, the team dominated their opponents in the Tier C round of 16, which features teams that finished third in their groups after the initial round.
The match against Cuba saw Benin's U15 team display exceptional skill and strategy. After a controlled first half, the team intensified their attack, resulting in four goals. Kévin Noukpo Nounagnon opened the scoring at the 15th minute with an assist from Noé Faton. Faton then doubled the lead at the 24th minute with a pass from Cheihana Baaba. Osias Assigbe scored the third goal at the 32nd minute, courtesy of a pass from Rivaldo Mevognon. Gabin Ludovic Dossou Zanvo Adjalala sealed the victory with the fourth goal at the 35th minute, assisted by Kévin Nounagnon.
The win against Cuba propelled the Young Guépards to the quarterfinals, where they faced Nigeria in a highly anticipated match. Nigeria had been unbeaten throughout the tournament, but Benin's U15 team proved too potent for them. Noé Faton scored twice in the early minutes, at the 3rd and 8th minutes. Kévin Noukpo Nounagnon then achieved a hat-trick, scoring at the 21st, 22nd, and 35th minutes. Osias Assigbe further solidified the lead at the 33rd minute, securing a historic 6-3 victory that handed Nigeria their first defeat of the competition.
These impressive performances have contributed to Benin's U15 team scoring a total of 28 goals in seven matches, averaging four goals per game. The team's top scorers, Noé Faton and Osias Assigbe, are tied with seven goals each, closely followed by Kévin Noukpo Nounagnon with six goals. With three consecutive wins, including one against Turkmenistan, the Young Guépards are filled with confidence as they advance in Division C.
Benin's U15 team will face Scotland, the winner against Rwanda, in the quarterfinals on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at 6:00 AM. Scotland's victory over Rwanda sets the stage for an exciting match against the Young Guépards. The team's remarkable offensive capabilities and recent form make them a formidable opponent in the competition.
The victories over Cuba and Nigeria have significantly boosted Benin's chances in the FIFA World Cup and Festival U15. The team's ability to score prolifically and their strong team dynamics have been key factors in their success so far. As they prepare to face Scotland, the Young Guépards will look to continue their winning momentum and make a deep run in the tournament.
With their impressive performances, Benin's U15 team has garnered attention and praise from football fans and pundits alike. Their journey in the FIFA World Cup and Festival U15 continues to inspire and excite, as they aim to achieve even greater success in the competition. The team's progress and achievements serve as a testament to the talent and dedication of Benin's young footballers.
Key points
- Benin's U15 team defeats Cuba 4-0 and Nigeria 6-3 in the FIFA World Cup and Festival U15.
- The team will face Scotland in the quarterfinals on October 29, 2026.
- Benin's U15 team has scored 28 goals in seven matches, averaging four goals per game.
