Benin Republic’s coach, Gernot Rohr, has highlighted the importance of his team’s upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group D qualifier against the Super Eagles of Nigeria in Abidjan. Speaking ahead of Thursday’s Matchday 5 fixture, Rohr acknowledged the tough challenge ahead but expressed optimism about his squad’s preparations and their recent strong performances in the Ivorian capital.
The Super Eagles, who secured a 3-0 victory over Benin during their last encounter in Uyo in September, have already secured their spot in the 2025 AFCON with 10 points, leading the group. However, Rohr, who guided Benin to a surprising 2-1 victory over Nigeria in the World Cup qualifiers last June in Abidjan, is banking on his team’s solid form at home to continue their winning streak.
“I’ve been in Abidjan for a few days now to oversee our training and preparations. Everything is in place, and we hope to maintain our good series here,” Rohr told reporters. He emphasized the need to move past their disappointing loss in Uyo and focus on securing a positive result against the Super Eagles to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Benin currently sits in a precarious position with six points, trailing behind the already-qualified Super Eagles. To advance to the AFCON tournament in Morocco, they must achieve positive outcomes in their matches against Nigeria and Libya, especially with five-point Rwanda still in contention. “The match against Nigeria is very important. We remember the painful loss in Uyo, but we must approach this game with unity and determination,” Rohr stated.
Rohr, who previously managed the Super Eagles and led them to the 2019 AFCON and the 2018 FIFA World Cup, expressed admiration for the quality of Nigeria’s squad. He singled out Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman, predicting him as a strong candidate for the African Footballer of the Year award. “Lookman is a fantastic player. For me, he’s the best contender for the Golden Award in Africa this year,” Rohr remarked.
Despite praising players like Victor Osimhen, Lookman, and Moses Simon, who were part of his former squad, Rohr remains hopeful that his Benin side can contain Nigeria’s formidable attack. “I love these players, having worked with many of them, but I hope Lookman doesn’t score against us like he did in Uyo,” he added.
Rohr concluded by highlighting the significance of the match for his team’s qualification prospects and expressed his hope for an exciting and competitive game like their previous encounter in Abidjan. “Rwanda remains our main competitor for qualification. Nigeria has practically secured their spot, so I expect a spectacular match for the fans, just like our last game here in June,” Rohr said.
