Benin Republic head coach Gernot Rohr has issued a unique call to two Nigerian-born players in his squad ahead of the crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifier against Nigeria. Rohr has advised Lorient’s Tosin Aiyegun and Grenoble Foot 38’s Junior Olaitan to set aside their Nigerian heritage and fully commit to representing Benin Republic in the upcoming match.
The fixture, scheduled for Uyo on Saturday, will see Aiyegun and Olaitan, both of whom have strong ties to Nigeria, take on the Super Eagles. Olaitan, who was born in Porto-Novo to a Beninese mother and a Nigerian father, initially had the option to play for Nigeria but chose to align his international career with Benin. Aiyegun, originally scouted by Nigeria, missed his chance with the Super Eagles after Rohr’s departure from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in 2021.
At his pre-match press conference, Rohr emphasized the need for his players to focus on their current allegiance: “We have players born in Nigeria who speak Yoruba and have deep connections to the country. However, for this game, they must put those ties aside and concentrate on giving their best for Benin. This match offers them a chance to prove their value and show their commitment to their chosen nation.”
Rohr expressed hope that the players will rise to the occasion and avoid any conflicts of interest as they aim to make a significant impact in the qualifier.
