Gernot Rohr: Nigeria are favourites but must beware of DR Congo's set-pieces and physicality

Former Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr has backed Nigeria to secure a vital win over DR Congo in Sunday's decisive World Cup playoff finale, but warned that the Leopards possess qualities capable of unsettling the West African giants if not properly contained.

Rohr, who now manages Benin, offered his assessment following a dramatic pair of semi-final triumphs for both nations on Thursday. 

Nigeria advanced after a commanding 4-1 victory over Gabon in extra time, while Congolese defender Chancel Mbemba delivered a stunning late goal to eliminate Cameroon 1-0 and book a place in the Rabat final.

The Franco-German tactician has built a reputation for sharp analysis—having correctly predicted outcomes in both semi-finals—and remains convinced that Nigeria’s superior squad depth and cohesion should ultimately prove decisive.

"Nigeria, for me, remain favourites," Rohr stated, as quoted by The Nation.

"But they must play with discipline and caution. Congo are a physically robust side and very dangerous from set plays, as they showed against Cameroon. Their mental strength is also high."

Rohr emphasised that while Eric Chelle's Super Eagles boast more technical talent, they cannot afford lapses in concentration against a team that thrives on intensity and physical duels.

The one-match playoff marks the final African stepping stone toward the March 2026 intercontinental qualifiers, with only victory capable of keeping Nigeria’s World Cup hopes alive.

A defeat would abruptly halt their quest for a return to football’s greatest stage after missing the 2022 edition.

Rohr also acknowledged that Sunday's encounter holds added significance for him personally.

Benin's first fixture at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations will be against the Leopards, who continue to grow in confidence under pressure.

"It's a useful opportunity for us to observe DR Congo closely. We will be in Rabat as well, preparing for our AFCON match, so watching them again will be important."

Nigeria approach the final in solid form, having recorded five wins from their previous six matches, powered by the attacking threat of Victor Osimhen

DR Congo, meanwhile, thrive on tactical discipline, defensive structure and set-piece precision—qualities Rohr believes Nigeria must respect.

The two nations haven't met competitively for over three decades, with Nigeria winning 2-0 when they last clashed at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations.

This time, however, the stakes are far greater: a World Cup lifeline hangs in the balance in Rabat.

Wale Adejumo

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