Benin recovered from a two-goal deficit to draw 2-2 with Mexico in their opening match at the U20 Women’s World Cup on Saturday, 5 September 2026, with Romaine Gandonou scoring twice to secure a historic point at Widzew Stadium in ?odz.
The result looked unlikely for much of the contest after Mexico established a commanding position. Alice Soto put Mexico ahead in the 21st minute before Saldivar doubled their advantage six minutes after half-time.
Benin, however, refused to accept defeat. The side, known as the Amazons, produced a determined late response and turned a match that appeared to be slipping away into an important draw.
Gandonou began the comeback from the penalty spot in the 56th minute. Her finish reduced the deficit to one and gave Benin renewed hope, but Mexico continued to hold on to their lead deep into the second half.
With the game entering its closing stages, Gandonou delivered once again. She struck in the 87th minute to complete her double and draw Benin level, rescuing a point for the African side.
Having trailed 2-0, Benin’s ability to fight back will give the team significant confidence as it continues its campaign in Group A. The opening-day result leaves the Amazons immediately involved in the race for a place in the last 16.
For Mexico, the match represented a missed opportunity after their two-goal advantage had appeared to put them in control. Soto’s first-half goal and Saldivar’s early second-half strike had placed them in a strong position, but Gandonou’s penalty and late equaliser changed the outcome.
Benin’s comeback was completed in the final stages at Widzew Stadium, where the team claimed its first positive result of the tournament. The 2-2 scoreline reflected a dramatic opening match for the Amazons, who had been under pressure after conceding twice but responded with character and persistence.
Gandonou’s contribution was decisive throughout the turnaround. Her penalty gave Benin a route back into the game, and her 87th-minute goal ensured that the team left ?odz with a point rather than suffering defeat.
The draw is therefore a valuable start for Benin in the U20 Women’s World Cup. After being two goals behind, the side has kept itself well placed in the battle to reach the knockout stage, with its next Group A matches still to come.