Controversial Claims Rock 2026 WCQ: Rohr Slams Refereeing as Super Eagles Clinch Playoff Spot

Benin Republic coach Gernot Rohr has accused the referee of cheating after their 4-0 loss to Nigeria, which saw the Super Eagles advance to the 2026 World Cup playoffs, questioning the validity of Victor Osimhen's goals.

The culmination of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers (WCQ) for Group C was marred by controversy as Benin Republic Head Coach Gernot Rohr publicly claimed that his side was "cheated" by the referee during their decisive 4-0 defeat to the Super Eagles of Nigeria. The result propelled Nigeria into the highly anticipated final round of playoffs, keeping their World Cup dream alive.

Speaking after the crucial match, the former Super Eagles coach expressed significant dissatisfaction, specifically highlighting the two goals scored by Nigerian talisman Victor Osimhen in the first half. Rohr argued that there were infringements in the build-up to the goals and that the officiating decisions "would have deserved, in my opinion, a different decision and would have allowed us to obtain more justice."

The comprehensive 4-0 thrashing by the Super Eagles in Uyo was a painful end to the qualification aspirations of the "Cheetahs." Despite finishing with a respectable 17 points—level with the group winners (who secured the automatic qualification slot) and higher than Nigeria's 17 points (due to Nigeria's earlier win against them) Benin's hopes of a maiden World Cup appearance were dashed.

Rohr, however, took some consolation from his team's overall performance in the group, noting their resilience and pointing out, "We were the only team to beat Nigeria in Abidjan, while they remained undefeated in all other matches." He also highlighted that accumulating 17 points was a "significant confidence boost" for his relatively young squad.

While the loss extinguished Benin's direct qualification hopes, the Super Eagles of Nigeria secured a coveted place in the playoff stage, where they will have another opportunity to battle for a ticket to the expanded 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. The controversy surrounding the officiating is likely to dominate post-match discussions as Nigeria begins preparations for the crucial final knockout phase.