Former Nigeria head coach Gernot Rohr has reignited discussions about the Super Eagles’ recent struggles in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, claiming the team’s underwhelming performances against South Africa and Benin Republic were partly due to the absence of three key players.
Nigeria drew 1-1 against South Africa at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo before suffering a surprising 1-0 defeat away to Benin in their following fixture. These results left the Super Eagles in third place in Group C, with their qualification hopes hanging by a thread.
Rohr, who was sacked by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in December 2021 after five years in charge, spoke to the media recently, highlighting the impact specific players could have had on those crucial matches.
“It was difficult,” Rohr admitted. We were missing some very important players who could have made a difference, especially in those two away games.”
The Missing Pieces: Troost-Ekong, Osimhen, and Simon
The Franco-German coach pinpointed three players in particular: William Troost-Ekong, Victor Osimhen, and Moses Simon.
William Troost-Ekong: A rock at the back for Nigeria, Troost-Ekong is a composed and reliable central defender who brings leadership and experience to the backline. His absence could have unsettled the defensive structure against South Africa’s pacey attack and Benin’s physical approach.
Victor Osimhen: Nigeria’s talismanic striker, Osimhen is a potent goalscoring threat. His combination of pace, power, and finishing ability was sorely missed. The Napoli forward’s presence could have provided a focal point in attack and created more scoring opportunities.
Moses Simon: A dynamic winger known for his dribbling skills and creativity, Simon is a constant threat down the flanks. His ability to create chances and provide crosses would have been invaluable, especially against a defensively resolute Benin side.
The Rohr Factor: Hindsight or Excuse?
While Rohr’s comments shed light on the potential impact of these players, some experts and fans have questioned the timing and motives behind his statement.
Defense of His Record?
Some view Rohr’s remarks as a veiled attempt to deflect blame for the team’s struggles during his tenure. The NFF had cited “a lack of progress” as a reason for his dismissal, and highlighting the importance of these players could be seen as a way for Rohr to suggest that the current squad lacks the necessary depth.
Focus on the Future?
Others believe Rohr’s comments are a valid observation. The absence of key players can undoubtedly affect any team, and highlighting this can serve as a learning experience for the current coaching staff and players. It can also spark discussions about squad depth and the need for identifying capable replacements.
Looking Ahead: Can Nigeria Recover?
The Super Eagles still have a chance to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, but they face an uphill battle. Their next two matches are against Lesotho and Rwanda, and securing victories in both will be crucial.
Lessons Learned
Regardless of Rohr’s motivations, his comments raise important questions. The overreliance on certain players exposes a potential weakness in the Nigerian squad. Investing in squad depth and fostering the development of young talents will be paramount for the Super Eagles’ future success.
The Rohr Era: A Legacy of Mixed Results
Rohr’s time as Nigeria coach was marked by some positive results, including leading them to qualification for the 2018 World Cup. However, his reign was also criticized for a perceived lack of tactical innovation and a reliance on a core group of players.
Conclusion: A Crossroads for the Super Eagles
The absence of Troost-Ekong, Osimhen, and Simon undoubtedly impacted Nigeria’s recent performances. However, the responsibility ultimately lies with the coaching staff and players on the pitch. Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes are on the line, and the importance of addressing squad depth and tactical flexibility has never been clearer. The coming months will reveal whether the Super Eagles can learn from their mistakes and navigate their way to the 2026 World Cup.
