As Nigeria prepares for their vital encounter with Benin Republic, Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi remains confident that former coach Gernot Rohr’s knowledge of the team will not be a significant advantage.
Despite Rohr’s five-year tenure with the Super Eagles, Ndidi believes the team’s evolution under new leadership diminishes any potential edge Rohr might hold.
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Ndidi addressed the topic, saying, “He coached us for five years, but within those years, players are coming, players are going. Facing him is actually a motivation because we know he’s a good coach and we know he’s going to plan and wants to win.”
This sentiment highlights the dynamic nature of international squads, where constant personnel changes can render past knowledge less impactful.
Gernot Rohr, who previously coached Nigeria, is now at the helm of Benin Republic. His knowledge of the Super Eagles adds intrigue to the clash.
However, Ndidi views this familiarity as a challenge rather than a threat. “We are approaching that game, we have to show him that he actually missed something in the team, so I think that’s what we have to do now,” Ndidi added, reflecting the team’s determination to prove their growth and capability.
The Nigerian team is currently riding high on confidence following their recent performance against South Africa.
The first half was slow, but the team rallied in the second half, demonstrating their determination.
Ndidi emphasizes that everyone is in high spirits, ready to prove themselves in this match.
“Everyone is in high spirits for this one,” he remarked.
The players are eager to demonstrate their growth and the strength of their current setup against a coach who knows their history but not necessarily their present form.
Nigeria aims to use Rohr’s familiarity with their team as a stepping stone to victory.
With a strong historical record against the Benin Republic, having won their last four meetings, the Super Eagles, led by coach Finidi George, are eager to secure their first three points in the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.
The match promises to be a significant test of their progress and a chance to solidify their path to World Cup qualification.
