Benin Republic head coach Gernot Rohr is sweating over the fitness of forward Olaitan Junior and three other key players ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda and Nigeria.
Iinjury concerns mount in the Cheetahs’ camp ahead of the decisive fixtures, scheduled for October 10 and 14, will play a pivotal role in determining Benin Republic’s fate in Group C.
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Benin Republic currently top the standings, and victories in both matches could secure their first-ever World Cup qualification ticket.
However, the absence of several first-team regulars could derail Rohr’s plans.
A situation that may favor Nigeria, who are chasing qualification from the same group and are hoping for dropped points by their rivals.
Rohr and part of his squad arrived in Kigali on Monday, October 6, and immediately commenced intensive preparations at the Amahoro Stadium, the venue for Friday’s encounter against Rwanda.
The team will then travel to Uyo, Nigeria, for their final qualifier four days later.
Injury concerns have clouded Benin’s preparations, with Olaitan Junior, who plays for Turkish club Göztepe ruled out by his club’s medical team.
Reports suggest Göztepe doctors refused to release the striker for international duty.
A decision that has reportedly frustrated both Rohr and the Benin Football Federation, whose medical staff insist the player is fit.
Another major worry for the Cheetahs is Andreas Hountondji of Burnley FC, who sustained a knock over the weekend.
Although initial scans show improvement, Rohr may still have to list him as doubtful for the two encounters.
Further setbacks include injuries to Abdoul Rachid Moumini of Sumgayit FK (Azerbaijan) and Rodolfo Aloko of NK Kustošija (Croatia).
Both have been officially ruled out, significantly depleting Benin’s attacking options ahead of two defining fixtures that could shape their World Cup dreams.
