Benin Republic coach Gernot Rohr says his return to Nigeria is all about business and not a sentimental trip down memory lane, Afrosport reports.
Rohr, who was in charge of the Super Eagles from 2016 to 2021, was sacked after a dip in form and has since rebuilt his career with Benin, now on the verge of making history. He led Nigeria to a third-place finish at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and won 35 of his 64 games in charge.
The German has made it clear that he is seeking maximum points against the three-time African champions, with the aim of guiding Benin to their first-ever FIFA World Cup.
Speaking ahead of Tuesday’s World Cup qualifier in Uyo, the 72-year-old said his only focus is leading the Cheetahs to victory at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
“I have a lot of friends in Nigeria, even in this team. Some of the players here are ones I brought into the squad,” Rohr told reporters. “But this is not a moment for emotions or memories. The focus is on a big match, and we’ll all be there to witness it.”
Rohr described his five-year spell with Nigeria as “a wonderful time”, but made clear that his full attention is now on Benin’s qualification hopes.
“The game against Nigeria is like a final for us, and we have a good chance to reach the World Cup,” he said.
“The memories from my time in Nigeria are wonderful, especially qualifying for the 2018 World Cup with two games to spare — but that is in the past. This is a new challenge, and I’m focused on doing it with my Benin team.”
Benin currently top Group C with 17 points entering into the final day of the qualifiers, two ahead of South Africa and three ahead of Nigeria. The Cheetahs must avoid defeat in Uyo to book a spot at next year’s World Cup in North America.
