Benin national team coach Gernot Rohr has spoken out following his unexpected summons by the executive committee of the Benin Football Federation, expressing both surprise at the move and gratitude for the support he has received from his players.
The German tactician, under mounting pressure after Benin’s recent defeat to South Africa in their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, was abruptly asked to appear before the federation’s leadership.
The summons came shortly after the 2-1 loss and just as Rohr was preparing to return to Europe.
“This is the first time I’ve been asked to return immediately after a match,” Rohr admitted. The 70-year-old had been scheduled to travel back to Europe but was instructed to remain in West Africa for a debriefing with the federation’s top officials.
He described the decision as “surprising,” and noted that such a meeting could have been held in Abidjan, where several committee members were already present.
Despite the abrupt nature of the request, Rohr insisted that his focus remains on the team and their preparations for the upcoming international fixtures.
The coach highlighted the unity within his squad, revealing that in the aftermath of the defeat and the federation’s response, he received a wave of support from his players.
“I’ve had so many calls from players,” he said. “They told me they’re behind us, behind the staff, behind me. And that’s what matters. It’s the solidarity that counts.”
Rohr, who has managed national teams including Nigeria and Burkina Faso, emphasised that it is during moments of adversity that a team’s true character is revealed.
His remarks appear to be a subtle yet firm response to the scrutiny he is currently facing, as well as a public demonstration of his resolve to remain focused on the task at hand.
While he made it clear that he did not appreciate the manner in which the summons was issued, Rohr maintained a composed and resilient tone, indicating that he would not allow the situation to derail his objectives.
The Benin national team, nicknamed the Cheetahs, are currently regrouping for the June international break, with a crucial fixture against Morocco scheduled for 9 June.
The match represents a significant test for Rohr and his players as they look to rebound from recent disappointments and steady their World Cup qualification hopes.
Rohr’s comments are likely to resonate within the squad, particularly as he works to foster a sense of unity and collective determination ahead of their next outing.
His public appeal for solidarity may also be aimed at bridging any internal gaps between the technical team and the federation’s leadership during a critical period for Beninese football.
As the team prepares for their clash with Morocco, the focus will inevitably shift back to performance on the pitch. For now, however, Gernot Rohr’s firm but diplomatic response has set the tone for what promises to be a defining chapter in his tenure with the Cheetahs.
🚨🗣️Après son passage devant le Comité Exécutif de la Fédération béninoise de football, jugé humiliant par certains, Gernot Rohr a subtilement vidé son sac en conférence de presse. 🎙️😕 pic.twitter.com/l257e9FwSn
— Joueurs Béninois 🇧🇯 (@JoueursBJ) May 28, 2025
