Benin Republic head coach Gernot Rohr has conceded that Nigeria's Super Eagles possess better quality players, making it a challenging task for his side to repeat their 2-1 victory from June's 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Rohr, who masterminded the Cheetahs' upset win, is aware that the Super Eagles will be eager to impress their home fans after recent poor results.
"As a coach, it is an advantage to know the opponents, but it does not mean it will be easy," Rohr told a press conference ahead of the game.
"We know they have the better players, we don't have the players in the big clubs like Nigeria. As a team, we have young players now, and I'm very optimistic that we can do something well."
The 71-year-old Frenchman acknowledged that the Super Eagles will be the favourites to win Saturday's 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
"We have our chance tomorrow because we know we are outsiders, but even to be an outsider can be an advantage," he explained.
Rohr hopes his team can pose a strong challenge to the Super Eagles, saying, "I hope that the team will be able to be a good opponent for the Super Eagles."
By Olujimi Dare Ogun