Benin coach Gernot Rohr has explained why his team was defeated 4-0 against Nigeria’s Super Eagles in Tuesday’s 2026 World Cup qualifier.
Rohr watched as three goals from Victor Osimhen and a goal from Frank Onyeka gave Nigeria the victory against Benin.
Speaking to reporters at his post-match press conference in Uyo, Rohr suggested that it was difficult for Benin to beat Nigeria because Eric Chelle’s side were also playing for the playoffs.
He added that Benin also missed two suspended players and three injured players against the Super Eagles.
“They started with a goal in the third minute. I don’t know whether it’s offside or not. We had to build a new defence because of the yellow cards,” Rohr said.
“Today, we are a little bit disappointed because the dream of going to the World Cup is finished.
“There was a big disappointment because we wanted to go to the World Cup with our country, Benin, for the first time in history. We could not; we had to win here.
“To win in Nigeria when Nigeria is also playing for the playoffs is something very difficult, especially if you miss two suspended players from the last game in Rwanda and three injured players we had from the September games.
“We don’t have enough high-level players. We have some players who are playing in the fifth division in France, but I’m proud of my team
“I’m proud because they did so well in these qualifiers for the World Cup, and we could hope until the last game today to go there.
“That is why I’m happy to be the coach of this team. It is a young team still learning.”
