The Cheetahs of Benin Republic have been dealt a major setback ahead of next month’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers as teenage forward Rodolfo Aloko has been ruled out with injury.

The 18-year-old Charlotte FC star sustained a knee injury during Benin’s matchday eight clash with Lesotho, where he impressed with his second consecutive start and registered his first international assist.

However, his night ended abruptly in the 50th minute when he collapsed on the pitch before being stretchered off.

The Cheetahs will travel to Kigali to face Rwanda on matchday nine, before concluding their qualifiers with a high-stakes clash against the Super Eagles of Nigeria in Uyo.

Benin’s head coach, Gernot Rohr, confirmed on Canal Sport that the youngster requires surgery.

“Unfortunately, we have a more serious injury, that of Rodolfo. He has a meniscus injury and needs surgery. He will likely miss the upcoming matches in October. It’s sad news because he was improving, with two very convincing performances,” Rohr said.

Aloko is expected to be sidelined for several weeks, ruling him out of Benin’s decisive fixtures against Rwanda and Nigeria’s Super Eagles.

Benin Republic currently sit second in Group C with 14 points, just three points behind leaders South Africa. Their campaign could, however, receive a twist following FIFA’s disciplinary proceedings against Bafana Bafana for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in March against Lesotho.

If FIFA deducts three points and three goals from South Africa, Benin could climb to the top of the group ahead of the final rounds.