The head coach of Benin Republic, Gernot Rohr, has expressed his dissatisfaction with the officiating during his team’s 4–0 loss to Nigeria in their final 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier. He believes that two of Victor Osimhen’s first-half goals should not have counted.
In an interview with CAFOnline.com, Rohr, a German coach, pointed out that there were fouls leading up to both goals scored by Osimhen during the match held at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. Osimhen, currently with Galatasaray, was a key player as Nigeria secured a decisive victory to finish first in Group C.
“Our main regrets revolve around the first two goals conceded in Nigeria in this crucial match,” Rohr stated. “I believe these situations deserved a different decision and could have ensured a fairer outcome for us.”
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Rohr, who has previously managed the Super Eagles, cited the officiating as a major reason for Benin’s defeat, which ultimately impeded their chance to compete in the intercontinental playoffs. Both Nigeria and Benin ended the group stage with 17 points, but Nigeria advanced thanks to CAF’s points-weighting system following Eritrea’s withdrawal from the qualifiers.
Despite the setback, Rohr expressed pride in his team’s performance throughout the tournament.
“We finished the World Cup qualifiers with 17 points, matching Nigeria, which is a significant confidence boost. We were the only team to defeat Nigeria in Abidjan, while they remained unbeaten against everyone else.”
With this victory, Nigeria secured their spot in a crucial playoff against Gabon, scheduled for November 13 in Morocco, as they aim to secure Africa’s last spot for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.