Benin Republic coach Gernot Rohr has made it clear that his visit to Nigeria is strictly business, to secure maximum points and help the Cheetahs qualify for their first-ever FIFA World Cup, not to rekindle old friendships or relive memories.
Rohr, who managed the Super Eagles from 2016 to 2021, was dismissed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) following a decline in form and a lack of clear tactical direction.
Since then, the Franco-German tactician has moved on and is now on the brink of making history with Benin Republic, but he must overcome the team he once led for five years to achieve that dream.
Speaking during the pre-match press conference ahead of Tuesday’s World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, the 72-year-old said his focus is entirely on guiding his team to victory.
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“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 journalists in Uyo. “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.”
Reflecting on his time with the Super Eagles, Rohr added that while his memories with Nigeria remain special, his full attention is now on his current mission.
“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.”
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