National Teams
FIFA WCQ Playoffs: Ex-Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr offers tactical tips to pip DR Congo
By Wale Mustapha
Ahead of Sunday’s decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff final between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and the Democratic Republic of Congo, former Super Eagles head coach Gernot Rohr has shared his tactical insights, stressing the importance of discipline and caution for Nigeria to secure victory.
Rohr, who managed the Super Eagles for five years, believes Nigeria’s quality makes them the favorites to win, but he warned that the team must be fully focused and controlled when they face DR Congo in Rabat.
The Super Eagles reached the final after a dominant 4-1 victory over Gabon in a thrilling extra-time encounter on Thursday, with Victor Osimhen scoring twice and Akor Adams and Chidera Ejuke also finding the net.
“Nigeria, for me, remains favorites, but they must play with discipline and caution,” Rohr told Pan-Africa Football in an exclusive interview.
“Congo are a physically robust side and very dangerous from set plays, as they showed against Cameroon. Their mental strength is also high, and they will not be easy to break down.”
The Leopards of DR Congo, who advanced to the final with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Cameroon, will be a formidable opponent.
The game’s only goal came in stoppage time from Congo captain Chancel Mbemba, underscoring the team’s resilience and ability to fight until the very end.
Rohr stresses DR Congo’s strength in set-piece situations and their overall physicality, which could pose challenges for Nigeria. However, he remains confident that the Super Eagles’ collective quality and experience will see them through to victory.
“It will be an interesting game, but I think Nigeria will go through because they have better qualities collectively,” Rohr added. “If they play to their potential, they should be able to handle Congo’s threat and secure the win.”
With Rohr’s guidance and the Super Eagles’ strong form under current coach Eric Chelle, Nigeria will be looking to put their best foot forward and qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
But as Rohr wisely noted, focus and discipline will be key if Nigeria is to overcome DR Congo and reach the final stage of the World Cup qualification process.
