Benin coach Gernot Rohr has warned that Nigeria must be wary of a physically strong DR Congo as the Super Eagles prepare for Sunday’s winner takes all World Cup playoff final in Rabat, Footynaija.com reports.
The 72-year-old, who backed Nigeria prior to the semi-final, said the Leopards pose a serious threat in aerial duels and set pieces, and that the West African side should not underestimate that aspect of the contest.
Sunday’s match against the Democratic Republic of Congo is the last hurdle on the African path to the inter confederation play off in March 2026. For Eric Chelle and his squad, a win keeps the team alive, but defeat means the World Cup dream ends for this cycle.
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Nigeria arrive with momentum after a 4-1 extra-time victory over Gabon. The squad will lean heavily on Victor Osimhen for goals with the Galatasaray striker currently on red-hot form.
According to a report by The Nation, Rohr said “Of course, Nigeria is the favourite but they must be careful.”
“Congo has a physically strong team and are dangerous on set pieces like they showed against Cameroon with good physical and mental strength,” he added.
“It will be an interesting game but I think Nigeria will go through because they have better qualities collectively.”
The Leopards earn a great deal of their threat from height and organisation at dead ball situations. Their stoppage time winner versus Cameroon was a corner that revealed timing and aerial presence rather than elaborate build up play.
Players like Chancel Mbemba, the semi-final match winner, and experienced forwards who can hold the ball up give DR Congo options both to break quickly and to press for second balls in the box.
