BENIN Republic head coach Gernot Rohr is confident his underdogs are capable of securing a victory against the Super Eagles of Nigeria in Uyo tomorrow.
Rohr’s side would earn the only automatic 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket in African qualifying Group C if they beat the Super Eagles at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in the Akwa Ibom State capital.
Benin Republic have defied the odds to top the group ahead of South Africa and Nigeria going into the final round of matches, and Rohr believes they can complete the mission tomorrow.
“We’re well settled here in Uyo. We had a light session on Saturday and a full training on Sunday,” noted Rohr, who coached the Super Eagles to qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
“Of course, we feel the massive anticipation back home. People are dreaming of the World Cup now. We’re one match, one win away from that goal, a dream for a small country like Benin. But it’s achievable.”
Despite being forced to play ‘home’ games in Côte d’Ivoire due to sub-standard facilities in Benin Republic, Rohr has kept his side on top of a very tough group, beating the Super Eagles in Abidjan.
“We’ve become a solid, united, and collective team that performs even in difficult conditions,” the German said.
“Yes, we’re top of the group. But we remain humble. We want a good result. Of course, we always play to win.
“It might sound bold to come to Nigeria aiming for victory, but we have to. South Africa might beat Rwanda, and if that happens, qualification could come down to goal difference.
“We’ll try to stay calm and composed. On the pitch, that means trying to control the game.
“We’ll aim for good ball possession. Our style is built on solid defense and quick counterattacks. That’s what we’ll try to implement here.”
Benin Republic, ranked 96th in the world by FIFA to Nigeria’s 44th, have never qualified for the World Cup, and this is the closest they have been to realising that dream.