Benin Republic head coach Gernot Rohr has emphasized that his team will approach Monday’s World Cup qualifier against Nigeria with determination, despite being considered underdogs.

The crucial match will take place at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

Rohr, who managed the Super Eagles from 2016 to 2021 and led them to the 2018 FIFA World Cup, expressed respect for his former team but remains focused on securing a win.

“Nigeria is a great team. We are the underdogs, but we will play tomorrow to win,” Rohr stated confidently in a press briefing ahead of the match.

The Cheetahs are coming off a narrow 1-0 victory against Rwanda, placing them third in the group with four points.

In contrast, Nigeria who have yet to secure a win in the qualifiers, sit in fifth place after drawing all three of their matches so far.