Benin coach Rohr reveals why he recalled Remo Stars GK, suggests Super Eagles have problems in defence

Benin's Cheetahs coach Gernot Rohr has explained why he recalled Remo Stars goalkeeper Serge Obassa to the national team for the internationals in November against Nigeria and Libya.

Obassa was not invited for the last six games played by the West African team, including the first four matches of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

His performances in the Nigeria Premier Football League were so impressive that he could not be overlooked for the upcoming games against the Super Eagles and Mediterranean Knights. 

Obassa has been immense between the sticks, posting four clean sheets in his first six appearances in the NPFL for table topping Remo Stars, and was in the squad beaten on aggregate by FAR Rabat in the CAF Champions League.

Rohr revealed that the goalkeeper's knowledge of Nigerian football can be useful to the Cheetahs.

The Franco-German manager believes the Super Eagles might struggle defensively, which his team aims to exploit. 

Super Eagles interim manager Augustine Eguavoen will not be able to count on the services on key defenders Semi Ajayi and Zaidu Sanusi for the Afcon qualifiers, while Victor Collins and Gabriel Osho are uncapped at international level.

In quotes relayed by Mega Sports, Rohr said: "In our list of 25 players for the two decisive matches against Nigeria and Libya, we have the return of two players that we have followed and who have played very well recently. 

"It is Serge Obassa in the list of three goalkeepers with Alagbé and Dandjinou. And then we also have the return of Lenny Piringuel who, with his new club, Rouen, is starting to find his marks, his liveliness, interests us a lot. Especially against a Nigerian team that could have small problems in defense, we hope.

“Obviously, Sergio Obassa knows Nigerian football very well since he plays for Remo Stars, which is one of the best clubs in Nigeria at the moment. So his experience and know-how can also be useful to us, whether in training or possibly in matches".

Nigeria, who lead Group D with ten points, have the best defensive record in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers with zero goals conceded after four games. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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