“We have our say”, Gernot Rohr ahead of Egypt – Benin

Gernot Rohr spoke about Benin’s chances to qualify for the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. And the Leopards coach believes his players are capable of taming the Egyptian ogre.

As they head into one of the most high-profile matches in their history, Benin strides forward without any complexes. Facing Egypt in the Round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the Leopards know the scale of the mountain to climb, but refuse to take on a purely symbolic role.

In front of journalists at the pre-match press conference, Gernot Rohr did not try to hide the difficulty of the task. Facing the seven-time African champions, used to big continental showdowns, the Benin coach spoke of a major challenge. Nevertheless, the German-French coach reminded that his squad has built itself over the last few years against high-caliber opponents, an experience he hopes will weigh at the decisive moment. “We know we are not the favorites, but we want to fully take our chances. We have the ambition to deliver a good performance and, why not, to qualify,” said Gernot Rohr.

With an Egyptian side packed with stars like Mohamed Salah or Omar Marmoush, the odds are heavily in favor of the Pharaohs, acknowledges the 72-year-old coach. But the Benin coach believes that the collective determination and solidarity shown by his players since the start of the tournament will make the difference, despite some absences due to injuries and a suspension.

“We are not favorites, but we have a say,” Rohr stressed. A determined message, worthy of a challenge that could open a new page in Benin football history. See you tonight from 5:00 PM (Benin time) for the kickoff.