Former Super Eagles head coach, Gernot Rohr, has opened up about a remarkable incident that took place during his tenure with the Nigerian national team.
Rohr, who recently celebrated his 70th birthday, spent five eventful years at the helm of the Super Eagles before being relieved of his duties by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on December 12, 2021.
Reflecting on his time with the team, Rohr recalled a particularly memorable experience that could have resulted in his dismissal even earlier.
During the team’s preparations for a crucial 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against the Leone Stars of Sierra Leone, an unexpected guest arrived at their training session in Benin City – none other than the former sports minister, Sunday Dare.
To everyone’s surprise, Dare arrived accompanied by 40 to 50 journalists and expressed his desire to participate in the training.
Rohr found himself in a challenging situation, unsure of how to handle the minister’s unexpected request. However, his assistant informed him that complying with the minister’s wishes was crucial to preserving their positions within the team. Without much time for deliberation, Rohr decided to organize a training exercise known as a “rondo” for Dare, a drill involving quick passing and movement in a tight circle.
To the relief of Rohr and his coaching staff, the impromptu training session involving the minister and the journalists proceeded smoothly. The Super Eagles showcased their professionalism by accommodating Dare’s participation and ensuring that the training session remained focused and productive. The potentially disruptive situation was skillfully managed, averting any immediate repercussions for the coaching staff.
Since parting ways with the Super Eagles, Gernot Rohr has taken charge of the Benin Republic national team, continuing his coaching career in African football. Despite the challenges faced during his tenure with Nigeria, Rohr remains a respected figure in the footballing world, appreciated for his tactical acumen and ability to nurture young talent. His tenure with the Super Eagles saw the team achieve notable successes, including qualification for major tournaments and impressive performances on the international stage.
