Nigeria’s push for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has taken an unexpected twist, with Benin coach Gernot Rohr revealing that he wants the Super Eagles to win their continental playoff against Gabon, Footynaija.com reports.
The former Nigeria manager, who led the Super Eagles between 2016 and 2021, has spoken warmly about the team as they prepare for the knockout path that will determine whether they move closer to the finals.
Nigeria reached the playoff after finishing as one of the best runners up in the CAF qualifying series.
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Their emphatic 4-0 victory over Benin in Uyo on 14 October 2025 pushed them into the next phase, with Victor Osimhen scoring three times to overturn their earlier defeat in Abidjan.
The Super Eagles are now preparing to face Gabon in a one leg playoff in Morocco on 13 November 2025. The winner will advance to the final continental playoff that leads to the intercontinental route.
Only after reviewing his side’s qualifying journey did Rohr reflect on the Super Eagles and make his comments.
Speaking on Brila FM, Rohr said, “The Super Eagles have many high level players and strikers. We tried against them but could not do it. We beat them during the qualifiers and it was a result we were proud of, but I will be supporting the Super Eagles in the playoffs.”
During his time in charge, the 72-year-old guided the Super Eagles to the 2018 World Cup and a third place finish at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
His five year tenure made him the longest serving Nigeria coach in recent memory and he worked closely with several players who remain central to the current squad.
