Gernot Rohr acknowledges that his Benin Republic team faces a tough challenge as they prepare to take on the Super Eagles of Nigeria once again.
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The Cheetahs pulled off an impressive 2-1 win over the three-time African champions in a FIFA World Cup qualifier back in June, a victory that shocked many. For Benin, achieving a similar result would be crucial to their hopes of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Reflecting on the upcoming game, Rohr stressed that for his side to succeed, they must be highly organized and focused. “In June, Nigeria was not at full strength. Now they are. The only player missing is Ajayi, who is injured. We know they are the favorites, and it will take a feat to beat them again,” Rohr told the media.
Rohr noted that Benin has faced its own roster challenges, especially with a constantly reshaping defense, but remains confident they can hold their own. “Despite the absences we have, we are confident that we can play a good game and get a good result. The key to this match will certainly be good organization,” Rohr explained, emphasizing that Benin’s defense, although reconfigured multiple times recently, would need to step up.
Rohr’s optimism is rooted in Benin’s recent success on home soil and the progress they’ve shown over the past year and a half. “If we are in a good place, if we manage to develop our football as we have been doing, I believe we can put them in danger. All the victories we have had here prove that we’re capable, even against a big team.”
With the stakes high, the Cheetahs are determined to give their best and once again challenge the Super Eagles in what promises to be an intense and strategic match.