Benin Republic head coach Gernot Rohr has tipped Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman as a strong contender for the African Player of the Year award, hailing him as a “fantastic player” ahead of their crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Nigeria on Thursday.
Rohr, who led Benin to a historic 2-1 victory over the Super Eagles in a World Cup qualifier last June, remains optimistic despite the challenge of facing a star-studded Nigerian team in Abidjan.
“The match against Nigeria is very important,” Rohr told NationSport. “We still remember the loss in Uyo, which was very bad for our team spirit. But we have to forget that and approach this game with unity because we need a positive result.”
Rohr acknowledged the formidable attacking options in Nigeria’s squad, which includes Victor Osimhen, Moses Simon, and Lookman, who scored in Nigeria’s 3-0 win over Benin in September.
“I love these players because most of them worked with me during my time in Nigeria,” Rohr said. “For me, Lookman is the best player in Africa right now and deserves to win the African Player of the Year award. But I hope he doesn’t score against us like he did in Uyo.”
Lookman will be up against teammate William Troost-Ekong, Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi and Soufiane Rahimi; South Africa’s Ronwen Williams and Ivory Coast midfielder, Simon Adingra.
Also nominated are Algeria’s Amine Gouiri , Edmond Tapsoba from Burkina Faso, Chancel Mbemba from Congo and Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy.
While the Super Eagles have already secured their spot in Morocco 2025, Benin still has work to do. Rohr’s side sits on six points in Group D, trailing Nigeria by four points, with Rwanda and Libya also vying for qualification.
“We are prepared and hope to continue our good form in Abidjan,” Rohr added. “The match will be a tough one, but I’m confident it will be as spectacular as our last encounter here.”
