Former International Sets Rohr Near-Impossible Targets

The former Bordeaux manager could become one of the longest-serving Super Eagles coaches in history but the next two years may be his most challenging yet

2000 African Cup of Nations silver medalist Benedict Akwuegbu has charged the Nigeria Football Federation to terminate Gernot Rohr’s appointment if he fails to guide the national team to lift the next AFCON and reach the semi-finals of Qatar 2022.

Akwuegbu set these near-impossible targets for the former Gabon coach during a chat with Brila FM.

The German tactician recently inked a new contract that will have him stay in charge of the Super Eagles until the end of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Rohr led Nigeria to a third-place finish at last year’s tournament, and going two steps better next edition should not be beyond the reach of the three-time African champions.

But guiding the Super Eagles to the semi-finals of the World Cup could be difficult considering that the 2013 AFCON winners have never made it past the Round of 16 at the Mundial.

But Akwuegbu insists that’s the benchmark with which Rohr’s tenure should be measured for success or failure.

“Yes, it is good the give him a target, We should win the next Afcon and get to the semi-final of the world cup because we have the players to do that,” said the former Grazer AK striker.

“I don’t think the targets will bring any pressure because that’s how it is all over the world, and if the coach fails to meet the target, he will be sacked. It’s as simple as that.”