This archive report was first published on 5 July 2019.
On July 5, 2019, Benin Squirrels made history by becoming the first team to reach the quarterfinals of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
The team secured their spot after defeating Morocco 4-1 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw at the Al-Salam Stadium.
The match was evenly placed in the first half, with neither team able to find the back of the net in a dull half with little action.
However, things took a turn in the second half as a corner fell directly to Adilehou six yards from goal, who outmuscled da Costa and volleyed a low shot home in the 54th minute.
Morocco equalised in the 74th minute after Amrabat snatched the ball away from Adeoti and calmly squared the ball to En-Nesyri, who squeezed the ball past the keeper to make it 1-1.
The match went into extra time, where Sessegnon carelessly brought down Hakimi and gave away a penalty after committing a silly foul in the box in the 94th minute.
Fortunately for the Turkish-based midfielder, the Ajax winger missed the penalty after sending the keeper down the wrong way but hitting the post.
There was late drama in the game as Benin were reduced to 10 men after Adenon received his marching orders in the 97th minute of extra time.
The Benin player barged the referee and was sent off, causing further ruckus in the dugout while on his way to the dressing room.
