Speaking to CAF Online, Rohr reflected on Benin’s overall qualification campaign, noting the team’s growth and resilience throughout. “I think it can indeed serve as a springboard, especially as a rich experience. We finished with 17 points, as many as Nigeria, which already constitutes a significant confidence boost,” he said. Rohr also praised his team’s historic achievement, pointing out that Benin was the only side to beat Nigeria in Abidjan, while the Super Eagles remained undefeated in all other matches.
Despite the positives, Rohr’s attention turned to the decisive clash in Nigeria, where he questioned the legitimacy of Osimhen’s first two goals. There was a suggestion of offside during the build-up to the third-minute opener, although television replays were inconclusive. Additionally, some Benin supporters argued that a foul occurred before Osimhen headed home in the 37th minute. “Our only regrets concern the first two goals conceded in Nigeria in the decisive match. These situations would have deserved, in my opinion, a different decision and would have allowed us to obtain more justice,” Rohr added.
Benin’s journey through the qualifiers included several notable highlights, most prominently their victory over Nigeria in Abidjan. Finishing level on points with the Super Eagles reflected the team’s strong performance across the campaign. However, the 4-0 defeat in the final game brought a disappointing close to their qualifying run.
Nigeria, under the guidance of Eric Chelle, produced a commanding performance in the decisive encounter. Victor Osimhen emerged as the standout player, scoring a hat-trick, while Frank Onyeka added the fourth goal to complete the emphatic victory. The result allowed Nigeria to maintain an unbeaten record in the qualifiers aside from their 2-1 loss in Abidjan and secured their place in the continental playoffs against Gabon.
