2026 World Cup qualifiers: Rohr names 19 Europe-based players for cracker against Nigeria

Benin coach Gernot Rohr has revealed his 25-man squad for the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Nigeria in June, Soccernet.ng reports.

Benin currently sit bottom of Group C of the World Cup qualifiers with just one point after two games. But they will be looking to climb up in June, when they play Rwanda and Nigeria. They first play Benin on June 6 before playing Nigeria at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny four days later.

Ahead of both games, coach Rohr has named a 25-man squad comprising of 19 Europe-based players and six players from the domestic league.

In Rohr’s list, there are three debutants – Karim Rhamane, Romaric Amoussou, Samson Akinyoola. There are also some familiar names like Aiyegun Tosin, firmer Bournemouth man Steve Mounie, Junior Olaitan, and goalkeeper Saturnin Alagbe.

Full List

Despite Benin’s low pedigree, their game against Nigeria will be a tough one because both countries are neighbors. Also, Rohr will have extra motivation as he will be looking to get one over Nigeria, where he was in charge from 2016 till 2021. The Franco-German left the Super Eagles job under controversial circumstances, and had to drag the Nigeria Football Federation to FIFA before he was paid his salaries.

Nonetheless, Nigeria are still strong favorites to pick all three points from the game. Moreover, the game will be played at a neutral venue, which means Benin will not have the support of their home fans.