Rohr: ‘Our World Cup dream is achievable; we can win in Nigeria’

Benin head coach Gernot Rohr says he is focused ahead of Tuesday’s must not lose game against the Super Eagles of Nigeria as he bids to take another West African team to the World Cup in the last seven years.

Rohr acknowledged the weight of expectation back home, where millions are daring to dream of a first ever World Cup appearance.

‘We’re well settled here in Uyo. We had a light session on Saturday and a full training planned for Sunday. 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, Rohr told Goal.com.

Despite not playing a single home match in over two years and being forced to host games in Côte d’Ivoire, Benin has defied the odds. They currently lead a challenging group that includes Nigeria, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, and South Africa.

‘We’ve become a solid, united, and collective team that performs even in difficult conditions,’ Rohr added.

‘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.’

Rohr knows the atmosphere in Uyo could be intense, but he’s banking on discipline and composure.

‘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.’