Benin Republic coach Gernot Rohr has credited three standout players for helping the Super Eagles secure a dominant 3-0 victory over his team in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier on Saturday.
Rohr’s side had initially stunned Nigeria in June during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, but this time, the tables were turned at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Footballrover reports.
For nearly the entire first half, Benin put up a solid defensive wall against Nigeria.
However, their resilience was shattered by a moment of magic from 2024 Ballon d’Or nominee Ademola Lookman, who opened the scoring just before halftime.
Super Eagles coach Augustine Eguavoen brought on substitute Victor Osimhen in the second half, who wasted no time in adding Nigeria’s second goal.
Then, in a flourish of skill and determination, Lookman struck again to seal the deal and deliver a commanding win for Nigeria.
In his post-match interview, Rohr didn’t shy away from praising Nigeria’s depth, singling out substitutes Osimhen, Moses Simon, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru for their game-changing roles in the victory.
Reflecting on the game, Rohr admitted that the late first-half goal took his team by surprise, rattling their confidence and giving Nigeria the upper hand heading into the second half.
The former Super Eagles boss emphasised that Nigeria’s bench strength was a major factor in the result, with Simon, Osimhen, and Dele-Bashiru making the difference.
He lamented that his team lacks the same luxury of depth but was proud of their efforts.
Rohr noted that his young squad is still learning and showed great promise in their previous win over Nigeria, but stressed the importance of correcting their mistakes as they move forward.
“I’m not surprised by the result. I know the talent and potential of this Super Eagles team,” Rohr admitted.
Benin will look to bounce back when they face Libya on Tuesday, while Nigeria prepares to take on Rwanda in their next AFCON qualifier.
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