CAN 2025: despite having qualified, Gernot Rohr wants to go all out against Senegal
Gernot Rohr reacted to the Leopards’ qualification to the Round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations before even their final group match against Senegal. And the Benin coach assured that this would in no way alter the plan of his players who intend to secure victory against the Lions of Teranga.
Already assured of reaching the Round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Benin does not intend to ease up. After qualifying before the final day of the group stage, the Leopards’ coach, Gernot Rohr, expressed his satisfaction while reiterating the team’s unwavering ambition on the eve of the clash against Senegal.
Exiting a tough group was the Benin technical staff’s top objective, and that objective is now achieved. A reward deemed deserved by the Franco-German coach, who believes his players delivered in the first two matches. Despite a disappointing opening outing, which, he says, was marred by unfavorable refereeing decisions after VAR intervention, the Leopards bounced back and managed their second match perfectly to be in a favorable position.
Nevertheless, the qualification does not change the group’s mindset. Ahead of the Senegal match, Gernot Rohr promises a competitive and focused side, with the aim of recording a prestigious result. A victory would allow Benin to improve its final group ranking, with the goal of facing a potentially more approachable opponent in the next round.
“We will prepare this match as if we were not yet qualified, with the aim of achieving a good result and then see what the draw will bring us,” insisted the coach, determined to maintain the same level of demand. The technical staff thus aims to continue the positive momentum and garner as much confidence as possible before the knockout phase.
Regarding the rest of the competition, the Benin coach remains cautious. Depending on the scenarios, the Leopards could meet Egypt in the Round of 16, with a possible trip to Agadir. But the 72-year-old coach prefers to wait for the group’s final verdict before looking further ahead. One thing is certain: Benin has already succeeded in its group phase and now advances with ambition and serenity in this 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
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