AirBadminton: Benin’s 60-37 win over Algeria marks a decisive turning point
Benin seizes momentum with commanding win over Algeria
Benin launched its Africa AirBadminton Championships campaign with a resounding 60-37 victory over Algeria on Wednesday, September 16, in Entebbe, Uganda. Competing in the team relay event, the Beninese squad seized the lead early in the men’s doubles and maintained control through the fourth matchup, signaling a decisive shift in Group A.
Early advantage sets the tone
Oswald Fano-Dosh and Carlos Miguel Kpanou opened the match with a 15-11 win. Gladys Akakpo and Flora Kpogbemabou then extended the cumulative score to 30-17 in the women’s doubles, giving Benin a thirteen-point cushion at the halfway mark.
Algeria fights back but Benin holds firm
Algeria narrowed the gap in the men’s triples, but the trio of Carlos Miguel Kpanou, Oswald Fano-Dosh, and Julien Totin preserved the essential lead at 45-31. Gladys Akakpo, Blessing Atchade, and Flora Kpogbemabou then closed out the match to seal the 60-37 scoreline.
Group A standings and what’s next
This first result places Benin in a favorable position in Group A, which also includes Algeria and Tunisia. Algeria had previously beaten Tunisia 60-52. Benin’s next outing against Tunisia will be crucial for the group standings.
Benin’s delegation and tournament context
The Beninese delegation includes ten badminton players competing in Entebbe in team, doubles, and triples events. The third edition of the championship brings together 14 nations and more than 120 participants at Aero Beach, according to Badminton Uganda.
The competition continues until September 19. The continental meet also serves as part of the qualification pathway to the next AirBadminton World Championships.