The manager of Benin Republic’s senior national team, Gernot Rohr, says the Super Eagles of Nigeria still have a chance to qualify for the 2026 World Cup despite their challenging position behind his squad, South Africa, and Rwanda in the standings.
Nigeria is 5th in the six-team group without a victory in their first four matches of the campaign. They trail leaders Rwanda and South Africa, who are tied on points, by four, with the top spot determined by goal difference.
The qualification series will continue in March with the Super Eagles visiting Rwanda before playing Zimbabwe at home. With six matches remaining, Rohr, whose squad also has 7 points—four ahead of Nigeria—remains optimistic that the Super Eagles are not out of contention.
“They (Super Eagles) cannot afford to miss out on two straight FIFA World Cups, and that is why I firmly believe they can still recover in the race for the 2026 World Cup,” said Rohr, who guided Nigeria to their last World Cup appearance in Russia 2018. He made the comments after leading Benin to their first AFCON qualification since 2019.
He further explained what the team must do to secure their spot at the tournament, highlighting their stronger player talent as an advantage, but emphasized the need for determination and a good outcome in South Africa.
“Certainly, the Super Eagles can still achieve it (qualify for World Cup 2026),” the former Bordeaux boss added.
“There are six remaining matches for all teams in our group, meaning there is still everything to play for, as the top spot guarantees qualification, while the second position offers another chance.
“Nigeria has the strongest pool of players in the group, but they need to stay very determined to qualify.
“They must show proper determination to succeed. They still have to visit South Africa and other tough locations, which will not be simple.
“But I think they can still succeed.”
Mohammed Mowiz Suleiman
