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"AFCON Shocker: Benin’s Rohr Hit by Major Setback Ahead of Clash With Nigeria"

By Achimi Muktari

As the Republic of Benin prepares for a crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Nigeria, the Cheetahs’ head coach, Gernot Rohr, has been dealt an unexpected blow that threatens to derail his plans. The highly anticipated match, which could determine Benin’s qualification to the 2025 AFCON, now presents a steeper challenge after news of a key player’s injury emerged.

Rohr, the former Super Eagles coach now at the helm of Benin, is aiming to repeat his past success by leading his team to victory against his former side, Nigeria. However, just days before the clash, the Beninese camp received devastating news: star defender Cédric Hountondji has been ruled out due to a thigh injury.

Hountondji, a towering presence in Benin’s defense and a veteran of several high-stakes matches, suffered the injury in September during their last AFCON qualifier against Rwanda. The injury, which has kept him sidelined for weeks, will see the Angers defender miss the showdown with Nigeria, dealing a significant blow to Rohr's game plan.

The absence of Hountondji is a tough pill to swallow for Rohr, who now has to rethink his defensive setup ahead of facing one of Africa’s strongest footballing nations. Benin has struggled without the defender, having already fallen to defeat in their previous match against Rwanda. This latest development adds pressure to the Franco-German coach, as the stakes grow higher with Benin looking to secure their spot in Morocco for AFCON 2025.

According to Punch Sports, Rohr is scrambling to reconfigure his lineup as the crucial match against Nigeria draws near. With both teams currently occupying the top two spots in their group, a win for Benin would solidify their standing and bring them closer to qualification.

However, without the combative Hountondji marshalling the defense, Rohr’s squad faces a daunting task. Nigeria, with its array of talented players and strong record in AFCON qualifiers, poses a formidable challenge, especially as they eye first place in Group D.

Despite the setback, Benin remains hopeful of a positive result in their clash with the Super Eagles. Coach Rohr, who led Nigeria to several international successes during his time as their coach, will be banking on his experience and tactical know-how to get the best out of his remaining squad.

As the countdown to the AFCON qualifier continues, all eyes are on the Cheetahs and how they will cope with the loss of one of their key players. Fans and pundits alike are eagerly awaiting what promises to be an intense and dramatic showdown in Abidjan, as the road to AFCON 2025 heats up.