2026 World Cup playoffs: Gernot Rohr predicts the winner of the Nigeria – Gabon clash
Gernot Rohr firmly believes in Nigeria’s chances, which he sees dominating Gabon in the 2026 World Cup playoffs thanks to the quality and cohesion of its squad.
Gernot Rohr, sélectionneur national du Bénin
Benin’s coach, Gernot Rohr, gave his prediction ahead of the Africa zone playoffs for the 2026 World Cup. For the German coach, Nigeria has every chance to beat Gabon and clinch its spot in the final showdown against RD Congo.
The former coach of the Super Eagles said he was convinced of the superiority of the Nigerian squad, estimating that Eric Chelle’s men possess a collective and individual potential far above that of the Panthers.
« Aubameyang was still a young player back then, in 2012, and their captain, Bruno Ecuele Manga, is still around, Gernot Rohr recalled in an interview with Nation Sport. « But I think Nigeria has better players. If they play with the same solidarity as against Benin, they can beat Gabon without difficulty. »
In the other tie of these playoffs, RD Congo will lock horns with Cameroon for a place in the final. The suspense remains, but for Gernot Rohr, the Super Eagles have already taken a lead.