Head coach of the Benin Republic national team, Gernot Rohr, has admitted that his side was fortunate to escape with a victory in their previous World Cup qualifier against Rwanda, even as he now braces for a far tougher challenge against Nigeria in Uyo.
Speaking to journalists shortly after the team’s arrival in Uyo, Rohr described Tuesday’s clash against the Super Eagles as one of the most difficult games his side will face in the qualifying campaign.
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“To be honest, we were lucky against Rwanda,” Rohr said. “It was a very difficult match, and they pushed us to the limit. But that’s football — sometimes it’s your day. Now, we are here in Uyo, and we know Nigeria will come at us with full strength.”
The experienced German tactician, who once managed the Super Eagles, confirmed that two key players will miss the game through suspension, but maintained that Benin Republic will fight with all they have.
“We’ll miss some important players, but the spirit in camp is strong,” Rohr explained. “We have prepared well and will approach the game with discipline and belief. We respect Nigeria, but we will not roll over for them.”
Rohr also highlighted the importance of staying focused and compact, adding that any lapse could be punished by a team of Nigeria’s calibre.
“This is a very big match for both sides,” he said. “Nigeria have the motivation, but so do we. The Super Eagles will be desperate to win, but we are here to prove that we can compete at the highest level. Football is unpredictable — we will give our best and see what happens.”
As both teams settle in Uyo ahead of the final round of Group C qualifiers, Rohr’s words add spice to what is shaping up to be a fierce West African showdown — one that could determine who gets a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
