'We know they are a great team' - Gernot Rohr plays down talk of revenge mission against Super Eagles 

Republic of Benin coach Gernot Rohr addressed the media in Abidjan on the eve of his side's 2026 World Cup qualifying match against the Super Eagles at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny.

Rohr has a history with Nigeria as he was coach of the three-time African champions for five years before he was dismissed by former Nigeria Football Federation president Amaju Pinnick a month before the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations. 

In the days leading up to the matchday four clash, much of the discussion has focused on Rohr's determination to make a statement following his contentious departure from the Super Eagles.

The  Cheetahs head into their 2026 World Cup qualifying fixture against the Super Eagles in confident mood, buoyed by their first win in Group C against Rwanda. 

Rohr has insisted the Cheetahs should be considered as underdogs in Monday evening's clash with Nigeria despite winning their last match against Rwanda. 

In quotes relayed by Bjfoot, the Franco-German tactician said: "We've been here practically two weeks. We were not complete but we were able to prepare for the two matches.

"We have the chance to play here (Abidjan) tomorrow against Nigeria, a high-level match. We know it’s a great team. We are outsiders. There is no revenge to be taken.”

After six draws and three narrow losses to Mozambique, South Africa and Senegal, Rohr finally won his first game in charge of Benin last Thursday thanks to Dokou Dodo's powerful volley in the first half following a corner kick.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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