Benin Republic coach Gernot Rohr could barely hide his heartbreak after watching his team’s World Cup dream collapse in Uyo.
A ruthless Victor Osimhen hat-trick inspired the Super Eagles to a commanding 4–0 victory — a result that sealed Nigeria’s place in the CAF World Cup play-offs and crushed Benin’s historic hopes of qualification.
The German tactician, who once led Nigeria himself, cut a figure of mixed pride and pain as he reflected on the night.
“Now the dream is finished” — Rohr’s heartbreak after Osimhen’s masterclass
In his post-match press conference, Rohr spoke with raw honesty about his emotions, admitting that the result was both painful and symbolic.
“Of course there is a big disappointment. The big disappointment is because we wanted to go to World Cup also, for the first time in the history. We could not. We had to win here, and to win in Nigeria. When Nigeria is also playing for the playoffs, it’s something which is very difficult.”
Benin entered the game knowing only victory would keep their hopes alive. But facing a Super Eagles side driven by redemption and led by a sensational Osimhen, the challenge proved too steep.
Rohr lamented the absence of key players, saying his squad lacked enough top-level experience to compete with Nigeria’s quality.
“We miss two suspended players from the last game in Rwanda, and three injured players we had already before, from the September games. So we don’t have enough players of high level. Like you know, we have some players who started too much, who even don’t have a club, actually. We have some players who are playing in the 5th division in France.”
“I’m proud of my team… but not happy he did it against me” — Rohr on Osimhen
Despite the heavy defeat, Rohr’s words carried genuine admiration for the Nigerian striker he once discovered. His tone softened when asked about Osimhen, recalling their early connection.
“When you have such a player like Osimhen, I remember when I brought Osimhen in the team, he was 17, and we made here our first game against Tanzania. He was already in our selection, so I’m very happy to see him like that, but I’m not happy that he did it against me. But I hope that he will do it in the play-offs for your country, which I love.”
That moment captured the night’s irony — a mentor watching his protégé end his dream. For Rohr, the loss wasn’t just tactical; it was deeply personal.
“We tried, but we could not do it” — Rohr admits Nigeria’s level was too high
Even in defeat, Rohr’s reflection was grounded in realism.
“The lesson is that we have to come to Nigeria to win to go to the World Cup. That is, for the moment, the level is too high for us. The last step to win here was too big for us. We are not able with our team. We must be realistic.”
He also gave credit to the Super Eagles, acknowledging their improved defence and structure under Eric Chelle.
“You have so many players at a high level, strikers, and today I saw also the defence, the goalkeeper in a good match. Before, they had some problems. They are in progress.”
For Benin, the loss marked the end of a remarkable qualifying journey, while Nigeria marched on to the next round with renewed confidence.
“I will be the supporter for the World Cup” — Rohr shows grace in defeat
Despite the pain, Rohr ended with warm praise for Super Eagles players.
“I am still happy to see half of the players who were busy. I am very happy to see them like friends. I will be the supporter for the play-offs. I will be the supporter for the World Cup. I can do it.”
For the 70-year-old coach, it was a bittersweet reunion — watching his former side thrive while his current team fell short.
In the end, Victor Osimhen’s hat-trick didn’t just send Nigeria through — it ended Benin’s World Cup dream and left Gernot Rohr with a night he’ll never forget, but then, his honesty, respect, and humility stood out.
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