Benin made a spirited entrance into the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup on Saturday, September 5, 2026, holding Mexico to a 2-2 draw at the Widzew Stadium in Łódź in their very first match at this level of competition. The Amazons looked set for an opening-day defeat after conceding twice, in the 21st and 51st minutes, against a Mexican side known for its experience on the international stage.
Struggling to find their footing going forward, the Beninese players eventually found their rescuer in Romaine Gandonou. Just 15 years old, the young forward pulled a goal back from the penalty spot, giving her team some breathing room and, more importantly, restoring the confidence of a squad discovering this stage of competition for the first time. From that point on, Benin began playing with far more freedom, gradually taking control against a Mexican defense that was starting to wobble.
It was in the 87th minute that Gandonou struck again, securing the point her side had fought so hard for. Pouncing on a misplaced Mexican clearance, she picked up the loose ball, weaved past several defenders on a solo run, then rounded the goalkeeper before finishing with composure. The individual effort earned her the player of the match award.
The result leaves Benin second in Group A with one point, just behind hosts Poland, who cruised past Argentina 3-0 in the other opening fixture of the group. Mexico sit level with Benin on the same tally.
Next up for the Amazons is a meeting with Argentina on September 8, a decisive test in their bid to reach the round of 16. Regardless of what follows, simply being part of this tournament already marks a historic milestone for Beninese women’s football.