Benin Republic national team coach Gernot Rohr has expressed deep disappointment after his team was defeated 4–0 by Nigeria’s Super Eagles in Uyo on Tuesday a loss which buried their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Cheetahs had topped Group C earlier in the qualifying campaign but dropped to third place after the final round of matches, missing out on World Cup qualification and also a playoff spot.
Speaking after the game, Rohr admitted the outcome was bitter but was positive about the long-term development of the side.
“We are saddened because our aspiration was to feature in the World Cup,” Rohr said. “That’s my initial response massive disappointment. But we have a youthful squad, and we will continue constructing.”
The erstwhile Super Eagles gaffer, who before this previous steered Nigeria to the 2018 World Cup, went on to add that despite everything, he is still proud of his players for being determined throughout the qualifiers.
“I am proud of my boys because they performed well under the circumstances, despite the numerous challenges we had in the World Cup qualifiers,” he said.
Rohr assured that the Cheetahs will bounce back and come back more stronger as they keep rebuilding towards future games.
