Gernot Rohr backs Nigeria, DR Congo to reach African World Cup playoff final

By Dayo Awoniyi

Former Nigeria head coach Gernot Rohr has tipped Nigeria and DR Congo to reach the final of the African World Cup playoff series taking place in Morocco later this month.

Speaking from Cotonou, where he now manages the Benin Republic national team, Rohr expressed confidence in Nigeria’s chances ahead of their crucial semifinal clash against Gabon on November 13.

“Gabon and Nigeria are two strong teams,” Rohr told NationSport.

“I know some of the Gabonese players from my time there — Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Bruno Ecuele Manga — they’re quality players. But overall, Nigeria have greater depth and talent. If they play with unity and discipline, like they did against Benin, I believe they can overcome Gabon.”

The Franco-German tactician, who previously coached Gabon between 2010 and 2012, also shared his thoughts on the other semifinal between Cameroon and DR Congo, predicting a narrow win for the Congolese side.

“It will be a tight contest between Cameroon and DR Congo,” Rohr said. “But DR Congo have some top-level talents, and Cameroon’s internal challenges could distract them. My guess is a Nigeria versus DR Congo final.”

The winners of the African playoff final will advance to the intercontinental playoff in Mexico next March, where they will compete against representatives from other continents for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.