National Teams
Rohr faces former side without key duo as Benin brace for Super Eagles showdown
By Dayo Awoniyi
Benin Republic head coach, Gernot Rohr, will be without two of his most trusted players—Sessi d’Almeida and Yohan Roche when his side takes on Nigeria in a decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Tuesday in Uyo.
Both players are suspended after picking up their second yellow cards during Benin’s hard-fought 1–0 win over Rwanda in their penultimate Group C fixture.
The result keeps the Cheetahs in contention, but Rohr now faces an uphill task against a familiar foe.
“We have lost two players for the match against Nigeria as a result of a second yellow card,” Rohr said.
“But all is possible for the three teams—South Africa, Benin, and Nigeria. The decision is now in our hands. Big suspense until the end of the qualifiers.”
The absence of d’Almeida, the combative Pau FC midfielder, is a huge blow. Renowned for his tactical discipline and leadership, he has been pivotal in controlling the midfield and offering defensive cover.
Equally damaging is the suspension of Yohan Roche, the reliable Red Star FC centre-back, who has provided defensive stability with his aerial prowess and positional awareness throughout the campaign.
Emotional Return for Rohr
Tuesday’s clash carries extra emotional weight for Rohr, who managed the Super Eagles from 2016 to 2021.
During his tenure, he guided Nigeria to the 2018 World Cup in Russia and a bronze medal at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.
Now, the Franco-German coach is on the cusp of history, aiming to lead Benin Republic to their first-ever FIFA World Cup—at the expense of the very team he once led.
Nigeria Also Hit by Key Suspension
The Super Eagles will also be without one of their key attacking threats, as Ademola Lookman is suspended due to accumulated yellow cards.
Despite the setback, Nigeria enters the tie as favourites but will need to be cautious—especially with Rohr’s insider knowledge of their strengths and weaknesses.
Three-Way Battle for One Spot
Group C remains wide open, with South Africa, Benin, and Nigeria all still in the hunt for top spot and automatic qualification. The final round of matches is expected to deliver high drama, with no room for error.
With both sides missing key personnel, Tuesday’s encounter at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium is shaping up to be a tense, tactical battle—laced with emotion, ambition, and continental significance.
