Head coach of the Benin Republic men's football team, Gernot Rohr, has admitted Nigeria were not at their best when his side emerged winners the last time both teams met, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 71-year-old masterminded the Lions of Benin Republic to a 2-1 win over his former side back in June, despite Nigeria drawing first blood at the Olympic Stadium in Ivory Coast.
Both sides meet again today as they kick-start their journey to secure a spot at the AFCON 2025 tournament in Morocco, and Rohr admitted Nigeria have a much better team on their hands now, and it'll be difficult to come away with a win.
“We are ready to play the match. Nigeria has a complete team. In June, we did not see Osimhen, Aina and others. We know it will be more difficult here,” the 2019 AFCON bronze medallist said in his pre-match conference.
Additionally, the German tactician admitted his experience as the former Coach of the Super Eagles gives his side an edge.
“It is an advantage to know the opponents a little bit. We know that Nigeria has the best players and that they play in the best clubs. As a team, we have young players, and I am optimistic that we can do something together and be a good opponent for the Super Eagles. With Nigeria, there is an unlimited pool of big league players to choose from. Unfortunately, Benin does not have the same advantage, even though it is not far from Lagos,” Rohr added.
Kick off time is slated for 5:00pm WAT at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
You are doing a great job.