Rohr: Cheetahs Ready to Give Their All for World Cup Qualification

Former Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr, has declared that his Benin Republic side, the Cheetahs, are fully prepared to give everything in their quest to secure a historic 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification.

Rohr, who now manages Benin, said the team views tomorrow’s decisive clash against Nigeria in Uyo as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to reach the world’s biggest football stage.

Speaking with UK-based journalist Osasu Obayiuwana, Rohr expressed optimism that his players, who are just one point away from sealing qualification, are ready to make history.

> “It was a tough game against Rwanda,” Rohr said after their 1–0 victory in Kigali. “We wanted to enjoy the win, but we still have something big to do in Uyo. We’ve lost two players due to yellow cards, but everything is still possible. The decision is in our hands.”


The Cheetahs, who arrived in Uyo on Saturday, sit top of the group with 17 points, ahead of South Africa (15) and Nigeria (14). A draw will be enough to send Benin to their first-ever World Cup, while Nigeria must win by at least two clear goals and hope South Africa falter against Rwanda.

Rohr, 70, acknowledged that facing the Super Eagles, whom he coached from 2016 to 2021, will be a stern test, noting the quality of players like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, and Alex Iwobi.

> “Playing against those players is another story entirely,” he admitted. “But our win over Rwanda has built confidence in the team.”


The German tactician also revealed that his players were fired up after South Africa’s coach, Hugo Broos, dismissed their chances of beating Rwanda and Nigeria.

> “When they heard that, they were very upset,” Rohr said. “Now, they are more determined than ever. We look forward to a grand match in Uyo.”



Benin will be without Yohan Roche and Sessi d’Almeida, who are suspended after picking up second yellow cards in their last match.

The showdown in Uyo promises high drama as three nations, Benin, South Africa, and Nigeria, battle for just two World Cup spots in Group C.