Rohr credits Nigeria’s 3-0 win to Impactful bench performances

Benin Republic head coach Gernot Rohr has attributed Nigeria’s commanding 3-0 victory over his side to the influence of the Super Eagles’ bench in the second half.

Speaking after the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Rohr highlighted the importance of Nigeria’s substitutions in sealing the win.

“The bench won Nigeria the match,” Rohr admitted in his post-match interview, acknowledging that the Super Eagles’ second-half changes significantly altered the course of the game.

Nigeria, starting with an impressive front line of Victor Boniface, Ademola Lookman, and Samuel Chukwueze, managed to keep their most potent attacking options on the bench. Reigning African Player of the Year Victor Osimhen, Nantes winger Moses Simon, and Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi all began the match as substitutes, giving head coach Augustine Eguavoen plenty of firepower to call upon later.

Ademola Lookman’s opener just before the half-time whistle gave Nigeria the lead, but the introduction of Osimhen, Simon, and Dele-Bashiru in the second half shifted the momentum further in the Super Eagles’ favour. Osimhen, who came on in the 78th minute for Boniface, scored Nigeria’s second goal shortly after entering the pitch, bringing his international tally to 22 goals.

Rohr also praised Nigeria’s defensive structure, noting, “The Super Eagles were organised defensively,” while expressing admiration for the passionate home crowd in Uyo. “The crowd in Uyo was wonderful; they pushed the team to win. We don’t have that in Benin Republic,” the coach remarked, reflecting on the electric atmosphere that energized the Nigerian team.

Despite Benin Republic’s spirited effort, Rohr acknowledged the challenge of facing a strengthened Super Eagles team, which included the return of five key players. Additionally, he lamented the absence of some of his own key defenders, a factor that he believes contributed to the defeat.

Looking ahead, Rohr remains optimistic about his team’s chances of progressing in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers. “We will try to win in Abidjan against Libya. Our goal is to finish second in the group,” he stated, underscoring Benin Republic’s determination to bounce back in their next match on Tuesday.

The result sees Nigeria top their group, while Benin Republic will seek redemption in their clash with Libya.