AS Sobemap vs Dragons Match Recap - Nov 2, 2025
In a match that may not have lived up to the lofty expectations set before it, AS Sobemap and Dragons played to a goalless draw on November 2, 2025, in the sixth round of the Championnat National. The result, hosted at an unspecified venue, leaves both teams with plenty to ponder as they look ahead.
AS Sobemap, who had come into the match riding a wave of momentum with four consecutive victories, maintained their second-place position in the league standings with 13 points from five matches (4 wins, 1 draw). On the other hand, Dragons, currently seventh with only seven points from five games (2 wins, 1 draw, 2 losses), will view this match as another missed opportunity to gain ground in their quest for playoff contention.
Given my pre-match prediction of fireworks with multiple goals, it's safe to say I was quite off-base this time around. While I anticipated a high-scoring affair thanks to Sobemap's potent attack led by David Akintayo and Dragons' flair in midfield through Herv Djigbodi and Yvan Kalou, the reality proved far less exciting than envisioned.
The first half saw limited clear chances for either side as both defenses held firm. AS Sobemap's organized back line stifled any real threats posed by Dragons' attackers. Despite some promising spells of possession for Dragons early on-particularly orchestrated by Djigbodi's creativity-they could not convert this into shots on goal. Conversely, Sobemap struggled to find their rhythm and were often forced into long-range attempts that lacked precision.
Coming out after halftime, it was clear both teams recognized the importance of securing all three points. The pace picked up slightly as substitutions were made; however, neither team managed a breakthrough. A notable moment came midway through the second half when Sobemap nearly capitalized on a defensive error from Dragons which put them momentarily under pressure. Yet goalkeeper Nicolas Odoun stood resolute and made crucial saves to keep his team in contention for at least a point.
As minutes ticked away without any sign of a goal, frustration began to mount for players and fans alike. While efforts intensified from both teams searching for that elusive winner-in particular during set pieces-nothing materialized. The match concluded in stalemate status quo: no goals scored and no points gained beyond what each team already possessed.
For AS Sobemap, maintaining an unbeaten streak despite missing out on victory serves as a mixed blessing but offers reassurance that they continue performing at a competitive level. However, they must now prepare quickly for their next challenge against Damissa scheduled on November 8-a fixture where dropping points could shift momentum among their rivals.
Meanwhile for Dragons, this result will be particularly disheartening given their recent struggles. With past defeats weighing heavily upon them-including losses such as a lopsided 1-4 defeat at ASPAC-the need to rediscover winning form is paramount if they wish to stay within reach of playoff spots.
As we look forward to future encounters next week-Sobemap against Damissa and Dragons facing Espoir Savalou-the stakes remain high. Both squads will need quick adjustments if they hope to chart different paths moving forward; one aiming to solidify its position near the top while the other seeks desperately for resurgence amid turbulent waters in Benin's footballing landscape.
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