Benin Republic coach Gernot Rohr believes in Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite their slow start to the campaign.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the upcoming fixture against Nigeria, the former Super Eagles coach spoke on Nigeria’s quality and persistent threat in the competition.

“Nigeria is still a favorite for me for the World Cup,” Rohr stated. “It’s a game like all the other games on one side but on the other side it’s also the opportunity to meet again some of the players I worked with and staff also, some staff members of the medical staff, administrative staff, and so it’s always a good thing to see somebody who worked with and you had good relations. We had a wonderful time together.”

Rohr reminisced about his time with the Nigerian team, highlighting their past successes.

“We qualified for everything what we could do and there’s no regret. I’m happy to see them still here in this team.

“I know that some of them are not here, Ekong, Moses Simon but they are still very good players and some new players which I couldn’t have yet and I think Nigeria is still a favorite for me for the World Cup.”