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The Digest:

Former Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr has pinpointed Nigeria as his "only regret" while managing Benin. Rohr lamented the crucial 4-2 defeat to Nigeria in the final qualifier, a loss that shattered Benin's historic chance to qualify for their first World Cup despite an otherwise successful campaign.

Key Points:
  • Gernot Rohr, now head coach of Benin, reflected on his team's World Cup qualifying campaign.
  • Benin needed a win against Nigeria in the final match to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
  • A Victor Osimhen hat-trick and a late Frank Onyeka goal secured a 4-2 win for Nigeria.
  • Rohr stated his "only regrets" were the first two goals conceded in that decisive match.
  • He believed different defensive decisions would have led to a more "just" outcome.
  • Despite the loss, he highlighted the confidence boost from earning as many points (17) as Nigeria.
  • Benin was the only team to beat Nigeria during the entire qualifying series.
This admission reveals the fine margins in football, where a former mentor's strategy is undone by the very force he once guided, altering the destiny of two nations.

Rooted in the Storm.

Sources: Soccernet.ng
Tags: Gernot Rohr, Benin, Super Eagles, World Cup Qualifiers