Benin Dominates Algeria 60-37 to Open African AirBadminton Championships

Benin Dominates Opening Fixture in Pool A

Playing in the team relay event, the Beninese squad took control early in the men’s doubles match and maintained their lead through four distinct confrontations. Oswald Fano-Dosh and Carlos Miguel Kpanou opened the fixture with a 15-11 win for Benin. Gladys Akakpo and Flora Kpogbemabou followed in the women’s doubles, extending the cumulative score to 30-17 and establishing a 13-point advantage at the halfway mark, as reported by Benin Web TV.

Algeria narrowed the deficit during the men’s triples match. However, the trio of Carlos Miguel Kpanou, Oswald Fano-Dosh, and Julien Totin stabilized the scoreline, pushing Benin ahead to 45-31. Gladys Akakpo, Blessing Atchade, and Flora Kpogbemabou closed out the final rotation to cement the 60-37 final score.

Tournament Context and Standings at Aero Beach

The win places Benin in a strong position within Pool A, which also includes Tunisia. Prior to facing Benin, Algeria defeated Tunisia 60-52, according to tournament results reported by Benin Web TV. The third edition of the continental championship features 14 nations and more than 120 participants competing on the sand courts of Aero Beach, as noted by Badminton Uganda.

The competition runs through September 19, 2026, and serves as part of the qualification pathway for the upcoming AirBadminton World Championships. The sport is designed for outdoor play on sand, factoring in elements like wind and intensity that distinguish it from traditional indoor badminton.

Next Match Against Tunisia

The Beninese delegation brought a roster of ten athletes to Entebbe to compete across team relays, doubles, and triples categories spanning men’s, women’s, and mixed events, according to Sport Benin Web TV. Following their opening win against Algeria, the team prepares for their second group-stage match against Tunisia to determine the final standings in Pool A.