Hawks of Benin gaffer, Gernot Rohr, says his players are not unaware of the daunting task ahead of them, assuring that the tiny West African neighbours are ready to face the Super Eagles head-on at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Tuesday.

Fielding questions from a Beninois news handle, lanation.bj, the Franco-German coach admitted that it is difficult to win in Uyo, but assured that it won’t be a stroll in the park for the Super Eagles

“The match against Nigeria will be a real final. Today was a semi-final against Rwanda. On Tuesday, we will have to get a result in Uyo, a stadium where it is very difficult to win. Nigeria still has a chance to qualify, so we must be ready to fight a big battle,” warns the former Super Eagles coach.

Rohr also expressed worry that other factors like fatigue, travel plans, and concentration will be key in the coming days for the Cheetahs, but maintained that the win over Rwanda is a morale booster for his players. Aware of the challenge that awaits his team in Uyo, the coach remains cautious but confident:

“We have tired players and a long trip awaits us. But this victory boosts our confidence. Even against big names, we will go to Nigeria with the ambition of getting a good result. A draw could be enough, but nothing is guaranteed. We will have to stay focused,” he concluded.

Gernot Rohr and his men took a major step towards a historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Kigali. Tuesday’s clash in Uyo will determine whether Benin’s dream of qualifying for its World Cup will become a reality.