Gernot Rohr is adamant that Nigeria's Super Eagles remain the favourites to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be cohosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Soccernet.ng reports.
Nigeria have endured a shocking start to the World Cup qualifying campaign, managing only three points from their first three games to sit second from bottom in Group C.
Rohr's Benin are flying high in second place with four points, equal with South Africa and Rwanda, and only one behind leaders Lesotho.
The German tactician will Benin against Nigeria in Abidjan later today, knowing the Super Eagles are desperate for their first victory of the series.
The former Girondins Bordeaux manager was Super Eagles coach for almost six years during which time he qualified the team to the 2018 World Cup in Russia as well as the 2019 and 2021 AFCONs.
Rohr confessed he is looking forward to reuniting with his former players but he maintains he has no gift to give as his Cheetahs will look to beat the Super Eagles.
“The Super Eagles are still my favourites to qualify for the World Cup,” Rohr said at the pre-match press conference.
“Nigeria are a great team. We are outsiders, but we will play to win.
“This match is an opportunity to meet with players and other staff of the team after a long time, it is always a good thing.
“There are no regrets.”
Meanwhile, Southampton striker Paul Onuachu has revealed that he is looking forward to meeting Benin coach Rohr, who gave him his Super Eagles debut in 2019.
However, the Nigerian forward has made it clear that he will leave the pleasantries for outside the pitch, as he is targeting a Super Eagles win.
Rohr as always playing mind game. When he was with Super Eagles he presents Super Eagles like that. Please SE don’t pay his talks serious