Benin's Cheetahs coach Gernot Rohr has highlighted the magnitude of his side's upcoming matches in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against the Wasps and Super Eagles.

Benin currently occupy the first position in Group C of the World Cup qualifiers and positive results in these two fixtures could be pivotal to their dream of reaching the global stage for the first time.

Speaking ahead of the decisive encounters against Rwanda and Nigeria, the experienced German tactician described the matches as the most significant in the nation's football history.

"These matches against Rwanda and Nigeria are the two most important matches in the history of Benin, I think. The players are aware of that," Rohr said at the pre-match press conference, before Friday's encounter with Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali.

Rohr, who previously managed the Super Eagles, has been working to instill belief and discipline in the Cheetahs as they chase an unprecedented World Cup qualification.

The Cheetahs defeated the Super Eagles 2-1 in June 2024, Nigeria's only loss in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, despite the three-time African champions taking the lead through Raphael Onyedika.

Nigeria will take on Benin at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo on October 14. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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