2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Benin coach Rohr sees advantage ahead of Nigeria clash

Benin coach Gernot Rohr believes his side holds a crucial advantage heading into their final 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Nigeria on Tuesday.

The Cheetahs are on the cusp of their first-ever World Cup appearance after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Rwanda on Friday night.

The win lifted Benin two points clear of second-placed South Africa, setting up a decisive showdown with Nigeria in Uyo.

Speaking to The Guardian, Rohr acknowledged the challenge ahead against his former employers but welcomed the fact that Benin controls their own destiny.

“It was a difficult game, of course. Rwanda wanted absolutely to win and we wanted to enjoy, in the end, the victory,” Rohr said.

“But we still have to do something great in Uyo. We have lost two players (for the match against Nigeria) as a result of a second yellow card. But all is possible for the three teams (#SouthAfrica, Benin and #Nigeria).

“We now have the decision (to win in Uyo) in our hands. This can be a little advantage. But we will see, Osasu, we will see. Big suspense, until the end [of the qualifying series].”

The much-anticipated game is scheduled to kick off at 16:00 GMT on Tuesday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.