Benin Forward Aloko Ruled Out of World Cup Qualifiers with Injury
The Cheetahs of Benin Republic have been dealt a setback ahead of next month’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with teenage forward Rodolfo Aloko ruled out due to injury.
The 18-year-old Charlotte FC striker suffered a meniscus injury during Benin’s match against Lesotho on matchday eight of the qualifiers. He is scheduled to undergo surgery and is expected to be sidelined for several weeks, ruling him out of the October fixtures against Rwanda and Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
Aloko, who had impressed in his second consecutive start for Benin by providing his first assist for the national team, was stretchered off early in the second half after collapsing on the pitch.
Benin currently sits second in Group C with 14 points, three behind leaders South Africa. Their chances of topping the group remain alive, with FIFA still reviewing a potential sanction against Bafana Bafana for fielding an ineligible player against Lesotho.
The Cheetahs will face Rwanda in Kigali on matchday nine before wrapping up their qualifying campaign against Nigeria in Uyo.
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