Benin vs Nigeria: Gernot Rohr proves a point, Finidi George in SOUP and 3 other things we learnt

Gernot Rohr (Photo Credit: Imago)

Benin vs Nigeria: Gernot Rohr proves a point, Finidi George in SOUP and 3 other things we learnt

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 19:05 - 10.06.2024

Finidi George and Nigeria's Super Eagles remain without a win in the FIFA WCQ after suffering a massive defeat to Benin.

Nigeria's hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup suffered a massive setback as they were stunned 2-1 by Benin in their crucial qualifier in Abidjan.

After taking an early lead through debutant Raphael Onyedika, the Super Eagles capitulated against the well-drilled Cheetahs to leave their campaign in disarray.

Here are five key lessons from the damaging defeat:

1. Raphael Onyedika mimics Boniface

On a disappointing night for Nigeria, club Brugge defensive midfielder Raphael Onyedika was one bright spark.

The midfielder marked his first Super Eagles start under Finidi George with a fantastic opening goal, replicating Victor Boniface's trademark celebration.

Belgium based Raphael Onyedika off the mark for Nigeria under Finidi George..
Belgium based Raphael Onyedika off the mark for Nigeria under Finidi George..

He repaid Finidi George's faith after impressing as a substitute in the draw against South Africa.

2. Defensive Woes Could Derail World Cup Dream

Nigeria's hopes were undone by poor defending from set-pieces from the Super Eagles players.

Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey had a game to forget
Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey had a game to forget. | Imago

From Calvin Bassey's reckless clearance for Benin's equaliser to Wilfred Ndidi and Onyedika's mix-up for the winner, it was an error-strewn performance at the back.

Benin Republic’s impressive Cheetahs had previously threatened from deadball situations that Nigeria got away with but the Eagles failed to heed the warning signs.

Wilfred Ndidi will lead the Super Eagles again as captain against the Cheetahs in Cote d'Ivoire.
Wilfred Ndidi led the Super Eagles again as captain against the Cheetahs in Cote d'Ivoire.

3. Gernot Rohr Has the Last Laugh

Former Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr, now managing Benin, masterminded the game plan that stunned his old employers

The Franco-German tactician proved a point about his quality after his five-year Nigeria tenure ended acrimoniously.

Former Super Eagles head coach Gernot Rohr seems to have derailed Nigeria's World Cup dreams. || Imago

He showed the Super Eagles why he remains the last man to qualify the team for the World Cup with his tactical masterclass in Ivory Coast.

4. Finidi Under Massive Pressure Already

With just one point from his first two competitive games, Finidi George is already feeling the heat.

Super Eagles boss Finidi George failed to deliver against Benin republic.

Nigeria's 2026 World Cup dream is hanging by a thread, piling immense pressure on the rookie manager after this damaging defeat.

Given the number of critics he had after getting the job, the former Enyimba man has not helped his case with some of his decisions and the results.

5. Top Striker Woes Continue

Despite Victor Boniface's prolific form, Finidi again opted to leave the Bayer Leverkusen hitman on the bench as the Super Eagles struggled to test Benin’s goalkeeper.

Victor Boniface watched the game against South Africa on the bench. (Photo Credit: Authetique Fortographic)

His decision to start Terem Moffi backfired as Nigeria's struggles with an out-and-out striker continued to haunt them.

Boniface came on later on but despite showing much promise compared to Moffi, the 23-year-old was unable to help save Nigeria’s blushes.

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