Gernot Rohr is optimistic about his side's chances despite being pitched against familiar foes in what promises to be a tough group for Benin in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
The draw was held on July 4 in Johannesburg and had the Cheetahs paired against Nigeria, Rwanda and Libya in Group D.
Remarkably enough, Benin, Rwanda, and Nigeria find themselves in the same group for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and have already played against each other, with Benin defeating both Nigeria and Rwanda.
The AFCON 2025 qualifiers are scheduled to start in September 2024 and finish in November 2024. The first and second-placed teams from each of the eleven groups bar Group B will secure qualification to next year's event.
Morocco will host the tournament, which will be held from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.
Gernot Rohr on AFCON 2025 draw, Super Eagles reunion
In a recent interview as reported by Benin Football, the 71-year-old reflected on the challenges ahead with a mix of caution and optimism.
“It’s a difficult draw, because there is Nigeria again. And we have Rwanda, an adversary that we know well and of whom we are wary. There is also Libya who have a good team, it will be a difficult trip there,” Rohr said.
“Another reunion with Nigeria,” Rohr continued, alluding to the upcoming matches that would also have a bearing on the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
“That's going to be three more games with them. It’s a reunion against a very good team. But we gained confidence and we know we can beat them,” he affirmed, expressing confidence in Benin's ability to compete against their formidable opponents.
Rohr was the manager of the Super Eagles from 2016 to 2021. Prior to his arrival, the Super Eagles had failed to qualify for the 2015 AFCON after winning the previous edition under the much-loved Stephen Keshi.
