Gernot Rohr, head coach of the Benin Republic national football team, has described his side’s final match against Nigeria in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers as his “only mistake” in an otherwise commendable campaign.
Benin entered the decisive fixture needing a win to secure qualification for the global tournament. However, their hopes were dashed by Nigerian, led by star striker Victor Osimhen, who scored a hat-trick. A late goal from midfielder Frank Onyeka sealed a 4–2 victory for the Super Eagles, ending Benin’s World Cup dreams.
Speaking to reporters after the match, Rohr—who previously managed Nigeria’s national team—reflected on the tactical decisions that shaped the outcome. “My only regrets are the first two goals,” he admitted. “We could have made different defensive choices that might have led to a more just result.”
Despite the loss, Rohr emphasized the positives from Benin’s campaign. The team finished with 17 points, equal to Nigeria’s tally, and stood out as the only side to defeat the Super Eagles during the entire qualifying series. That historic win earlier in the qualifiers had raised hopes of a breakthrough for Benin on the international stage.
Rohr praised his players for their resilience and growth, noting that matching Nigeria’s points total was a confidence booster for the squad. “We showed that we belong at this level,” he said. “This team has matured, and the experience will serve us well going forward.”
The defeat to Nigeria may have ended Benin’s World Cup journey, but Rohr’s leadership and the team’s spirited performance have earned respect across the continent. As the dust settles, Benin will look to build on this momentum and prepare for future competitions with renewed belief.
