Benin Defeats Sierra Leone in Women’s CHAN 2026 Qualifiers First Leg

The Sierra Leone Women’s National Team, Sierra Queens, has suffered a 2-1 defeat to Benin in the first leg of the Women’s CHAN 2026 qualifiers.

In the first leg of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026 qualifiers held in Togo, the final whistle confirmed Benin’s 2-1 victory over Sierra Leone’s Women’s National Team, the Sierra Queens.

The encounter, which took place on February 20, 2025, showcased the determination and skill of both teams, with Benin taking an early lead. Despite their efforts to equalize, the Sierra Queens found themselves trailing at halftime.

In the second half, Sierra Leone mounted a comeback effort, managing to score a goal, which reignited their hopes for a favorable outcome. However, Benin’s resilience and tactical discipline proved decisive as they maintained their lead until the final whistle.

Based on records, Benin was in a rough patch prior to their clash with Sierra Leone. The inability of Benin to keep a clean sheet has been evident, as they have been conceding goals for nine consecutive matches now; thus suffering defeats to Ghana, Congo, and other teams.

The Sierra Queens now face a task which is deemed challenging as they prepare to head into the return leg on February 24, 2025, at the SKD Stadium in Monrovia, Liberia. The team appears to be determined in their ambition to qualify for the Women’s African Cup of Nations for the first time in history.