We will be ready for 2025 AFCON – Benin coach Gernot Rohr after failing to qualify for 2026 World Cup

Benin head coach Gernot Rohr has reflected on the lessons learned from the recently concluded 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, admitting that being forced to play home games in South Africa significantly shaped his team’s campaign.

The battle for qualification in Group C went down to the wire, with South Africa, Benin, and Nigeria all fighting for progression on the final matchday.

Benin entered their decisive clash against Nigeria knowing that avoiding defeat would keep their hopes alive, while a win would have secured a direct ticket to the World Cup.

However, their dreams were crushed after suffering a heavy 4-0 defeat to the Super Eagles in Uyo, which saw Nigeria overtake them in the standings to claim a play-off berth.

Meanwhile, Bafana Bafana sealed automatic qualification after cruising to a 3-0 victory over Rwanda at the Mbombela Stadium.

In an interview with CAFOnline, Rohr explained that one of the biggest challenges his side faced was the inability to play at home due to stadium approval issues, forcing them to host all their “home” matches abroad.

“It was a long, intense campaign over two-and-a-half years. Because our home stadium was not approved, we had to play all our ‘home’ games abroad, mostly in South Africa — effectively making every game an away match.

Despite the adversity, the German tactician highlighted the positives, particularly the mental resilience and development of his young squad.

“Despite these conditions, the team grew stronger mentally. We integrated several young players from the U20s, and half the current squad comes from that generation. That experience — of constant travel, pressure and adaptation — made us mature faster.

“Now, with good preparation in November and a training camp in Morocco, we’ll be ready for our first game against DR Congo.”

Looking ahead, Rohr expressed optimism about the future, revealing that Benin will regroup for a training camp in Morocco in preparation for their next fixture against DR Congo in November.