Rohr Predicts Nigeria vs DR Congo Final in Africa World Cup Playoffs
Benin Republic head coach Gernot Rohr has tipped Nigeria and DR Congo to reach the final of the Africa World Cup playoffs later this month.
The experienced Franco-German coach, who previously managed Nigeria, said he expects the Super Eagles to overcome Gabon when both teams meet in Rabat on November 13.
Nigeria will face Gabon in one semi-final, while Cameroon take on DR Congo in the other. The winners will battle for a spot in next year’s intercontinental playoffs on November 16.
Speaking ahead of the matches, Rohr described both Gabon and Nigeria as strong teams but believes the Super Eagles’ quality will make the difference.
“Gabon and Nigeria are two good sides,” Rohr said. “Some of Gabon’s players were part of the team I worked with between 2010 and 2012 when we reached the AFCON quarter-finals. Aubameyang was a young player then, and Bruno Ecuele Manga is still around. But Nigeria have better players overall. If they play together as a team, they can beat Gabon.”
Rohr, who guided Nigeria to the 2018 FIFA World Cup, praised the Super Eagles’ recent teamwork and balance, urging them to maintain the same spirit they showed in their previous win against Benin Republic.
He, however, warned that Gabon’s experience and hunger could make the tie tricky if Nigeria fail to stay focused.
The former Bordeaux manager also gave his thoughts on the other semi-final, predicting that DR Congo could edge out Cameroon to set up a final meeting with Nigeria.
“The match between Cameroon and DR Congo will be very tough,” Rohr said. “But DR Congo may have the upper hand because they have players with more individual quality. Cameroon also have some internal issues that could affect their performance, so I think Nigeria and DR Congo will make it to the final.”
Looking ahead, Rohr admitted that the intercontinental playoffs in Mexico will be challenging but believes Nigeria have what it takes to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“The playoffs in Mexico will not be easy, but Nigeria can do it,” he said. “They have the best players and a strong football culture. It would be good for FIFA to have a big football nation like Nigeria at the World Cup.”
Rohr, 72, remains one of the most respected coaches in African football, having managed several national teams including Niger, Gabon, Burkina Faso, and Tunisia.
The Super Eagles are determined to return to the global stage after missing out on the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
