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Gernot Rohr: ‘Benin will stay calm and disciplined against Super Eagles’
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Benin Republic head coach Gernot Rohr has vowed that his team will remain composed and focused when they take on Nigeria in Tuesday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
Rohr, who previously managed Super Eagles and led the team to several memorable victories at the same venue, returns to familiar territory — but this time as the opposition coach.
Despite anticipating a charged atmosphere, the Franco-German tactician insists his players are well-prepared for the challenge.
“Yes, the atmosphere can obviously be hostile. But we will try to maintain a certain calm and serenity,” Rohr told Goal.
“On the pitch, this will translate into a desire to play the game. We will try to have good possession of the ball. We have a game based on good defence, with counterattacks. This is what we will want to practice in Uyo.”
Rohr’s Cheetahs currently top Group C with 17 points, two ahead of South Africa (15) and three clear of Nigeria (14). A draw in Uyo would keep Benin in control of their qualification destiny, edging them closer to what would be their first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance.
The team arrived in Uyo on Saturday following a hard-fought 1–0 win over Rwanda in Kigali, a result that maintained their position at the summit. Rohr has built his side around discipline, patience, and swift transitions, a formula that has yielded consistent performances in recent months.
However, Benin will be without midfielder Sessi d’Almeida and defender Yohan Roche, both suspended after receiving their second yellow cards in the victory over Rwanda.
Rohr admitted that their absence is a setback but believes his team still hold their fate in their own hands.
“Of course, losing those two players is a blow,” he said. “But our destiny remains in our control. We have worked hard to reach this point, and we will give everything to finish the job.”
